A rarely used contingency plan in Warren County government came into play Monday night with the appointment of Edward Farmelo as 11th District Constable.

Warren County commissioners were split 12-12 in their desire to appoint either Farmelo or Jerry Wakefield to fill the vacancy. A question by County Clerk Lesa Scott if any member wanted to change their vote was met with silence.

As Chairman of the Commission, County Executive Jimmy Haley may vote only to break a tie. Haley voted for the man who served as a public safety officer with McMinnville Police Department for the past three years.

“It’s tied 12-12,” said Haley. “I cast my vote for Mr. Ed Farmelo. He served the city of McMinnville when I was mayor of McMinnville quite well. I was proud of his service.”

Farmelo has been a resident of the Midway community for 28 years. He is retired from both Chrysler Engineering and Clayton Corporation.

Prior to the vote, the candidates were allowed to address the commission.

“If appointed, I plan on working to set up an online Neighborhood Watch program,” said Farmelo. “Those of you who are familiar with these programs know that they help reduce crime as well as giving law enforcement, including constables, another tool to pinpoint areas that require more patrols.” 

He will serve until the next election in August 2020.