In a special meeting Friday, April 1, the Oberlin Council met to appoint a new mayor.
Oberlin’s former mayor, Joseph “Moochie” Manuel officially resigned as mayor on Thursday citing health reasons. The council appointed its Alderman at Large Councilman Wayne Smith to fulfill the duties of mayor. Once that appointment is accepted by the state, the council will have 20 days to appoint someone to Smith’s seat, according to City Clerk Charlotte Artis. She said the Secretary of State’s Office explained the procedure to her after a discussion was held about the mayor’s seat.
At Friday’s meeting, Councilman Bobby Thomas made the motion to accept Manuel’s resignation, and Councilman Chris Davis gave a second. It was unanimously approved by Thomas, Davis and Councilwoman Linda Boulden. (Councilman Romelzy Willis Jr. was not present.)
Thomas also made the motion to appoint Smith to the mayor’s seat, and Davis gave the second. The motion was approved unanimously.
Artis explained the procedure to appoint someone to the alderman at large seat. She said they would probably have to make that appointment at the council’s April meeting.
Smith thanked the council and asked everyone to continue working together for the betterment of Oberlin.
