By Dianne Sudbrock

On February 15, 2012, in response to the resignations in late January of the New Melle City Clerk, Financial Coordinator, and Mayor; the New Melle Board of Aldermen appointed Dianna Lazzaro as interim City Clerk, and Greg Smothers to do payroll and other financial activities. Smothers was recommended for the position by City Attorney Stephanie Karr, and will work for the city as an independent contractor for a fee of $50 per hour. Lazzaro is the wife of Lt. Craig Lazzaro of the New Melle Police Department.

She has prior city clerk experience and will work the same hours and for the same rate of pay ($16 per hour) as the previous clerk. Another candidate, Lori West, submitted her resume in consideration for the interim clerk’s position, but since her husband, Richard W. West, is a candidate for mayor, city Attorney Karr advised against appointing her citing potential conflict of interest. Naming a permanent City Clerk is expected to occur sometime after a new mayor and new board members are elected in April.

As for the duties and position of mayor, Janet Jokisch-Messig was selected as President of the Board of Aldermen last spring. As such, she can perform the duties of mayor, with all the rights, privileges, powers and jurisdiction of the mayor for as long as the office of mayor is vacant.