The question of who will fill a two-year alderman term on the McMinnville Board of Mayor and Aldermen is expected to be answered Tuesday night, but city officials are tightlipped on who it might be.
“I know of two names that will definitely be considered and possibly a third,” said Mayor Ryle Chastain. “I’m waiting to disclose names until the meeting.”
The Board of Mayor and Aldermen’s regular meeting night is Tuesday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m. On the agenda under “new business” is appointment of two-year aldermanic term.
When asked whom he would like to see join the board, Chastain stated, “Someone in touch with where the city is headed. Someone who has been involved in other civic organizations and who has some background in finance and business. A team player who can work with others and has the city’s best interests at heart.”
Vice Mayor Everett Brock, who also refused to divulge names of potential nominees, mirrored some of Chastain’s traits on the new official.
“I want someone who is smart, has a background in business, with finance abilities,” said Brock. “Also someone who plays well with others.”
Aldermen Stacey Harvey and Sally Brock were elected to their first terms in November. Harvey says he’s going to be a “fly on the wall” and watch how the process plays out. Brock says she will not be making a nomination and doesn’t have a clue as to whom will be making one.
The vacancy on the board was created with the election of Chastain as mayor, leaving his alderman seat open. The seat, which is a four-year term, is set to come up for election in November 2022. The city staggers its six alderman seats, electing half every two years.
According to Tennessee Code Annotated, any member of the city board can present a nominee for consideration. TCA does allow the mayor a second vote to break a tie.
“All such elections by the board shall be made by voice vote, on the calling of the roll. If a tie vote occurs in filling a vacancy on the board, the presiding officer shall vote a second time to break the tie,” TCA says.
Aldermen Steve Harvey and Rachel Kirby were also contacted for comment with no responses received.
