Three names under consideration

Interest in appointment of Ventura mayor grows

Three persons are now reportedly being considered for appointment to become Ventura’s mayor.

Last week the Ventura City Council decided it will appoint a new mayor at its May 14 meeting, pending residents filing a petition in favor of a special election.  City Clerk Else Taylor said Monday no petition has yet been submitted to City Hall.  However, there is interest among residents to fill the post.

At its Monday meeting, the Council approved placing a notice in the May 2 edition of the Mirror-Reporter to notify residents of their intent to appoint a replacement for the remaining term of the Mayor position that was vacated by the death of Lynn Benson.  At that meeting, former Ventura City Council Representative Crystal (Kristie) Meints informed the Council she is interested in serving as mayor.

Since that time, Joe Schmit, who operates the marina at Dome Bait and Tackle, as well as an aquatic weed cutting business based at Ventura,  has expressed his interest in serving.  Schmit said he has owned Dome Bait and Tackle for 11 years, but has now leased the business to Clear Lake Bait & Tackle.  He moved into the community of Ventura in October after living outside the city limits previously.  He said he has served on a variety of economic development boards and committees for Hancock County and the City of Britt, as well as West Hancock School District.

Former Ventura Mayor George Simpson is also a possible choice for the appointment.  According to Taylor, Benson expressed his hope that Simpson would succeed him in the event of his death during his term.

If the Council appoints a new mayor, that person would serve through 2019.  The position would be on the ballot in the November 2019 General Election.

Under Iowa law, residents have 14 days (in this case until May 29) to file a petition with the city clerk to fill the vacated seat by special election.