Westfield City Council passes resolution seeking Mayor Michael Bohlke’s removal
WESTFIELD, Iowa — A packed City Hall and tense exchanges marked an emergency Westfield City Council meeting Friday evening, as council members considered a resolution seeking the removal of Mayor Michael Bohlke.
City Hall was full as the council called the meeting to order. After approving the previous meeting’s minutes and bills requiring payment, council members proceeded with the resolution.
During the proceedings, an attendee challenged the information being presented to the council, warning members they were being given incorrect information, lacked legal counsel and could be exposing the city to potential litigation. Mayor Pro Tem Beth Terpstra asked a deputy at the meeting to have the attendee removed. The Sheriff then asked the individual to refrain from interrupting proceedings.
Following the reading of the resolution, Mayor Pro Tem Terpstra called for adjournment.
Councilwoman Pridie appeared visibly upset over the vote. Councilman Tadlock, who participated in the meeting by phone, expressed a desire to reconsider the situation and work collaboratively with fellow council members and the mayor. The meeting was subsequently adjourned.
Following the meeting, KLEM Radio spoke with Westfield City Clerk Kelli Pierce, who discussed the circumstances that led to the issues surrounding Bohlke and the request for his removal.
Pierce also said individuals interested in being considered for the mayor’s position have until November 12th to submit their names for consideration.
However, the resolution does not necessarily mean Bohlke has immediately lost his position or his executive authority. It was discussed that the mayor has 14 days to submit a veto through the clerk of courts at his cost, which will require additional meetings.
In the meantime, the city moves toward the November 12th deadline for individuals interested in being considered for the position. KLEM will continue to follow this developing story.
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Northwest Iowa Community College accepts construction bid for Marcus project
At last week’s Northwest Iowa Community College Board of Trustees meeting, a public hearing and bid letting for the Marcus Regional Center and Career Academy took place. The building is expected to welcome students next fall.
Dr. John Hartog, President of Northwest Iowa Community College, spoke on the background of the project.
11 bids were put forward for the building. At the Board of Trustees meeting last Monday, Schelling Construction was awarded the project.
NCC’s Sheldon Career Academy aims to be a blueprint for what’s to come with future Regional Centers.
