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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, May 19, 2008 Page 14 Councilmember Pust added to her list of previous qualities, her support of ap- pointment of an applicant not intending to run for election. Councilmember Roe noted that there were two suggestions included in former Councilmember Kough's February letter: to amend the code, or to look at the sec- ond highest vote getter in the most recent municipal election. Councilmember Roe opined his total support of a Special Election, as a far more democratic proc- ess. However, Councilmember Roe noted that, by the time the City Council was prepared to act on appointment following former Councilmember Kough's un- timely death, there was not sufficient time to allow the opportunity of a Special Election. Councilmember Roe acknowledged potential impacts in the next mu- nicipal election for an incumbent seated on the Council, opining that candidates should earn their incumbency by ballot box, not through the impression of a City Council-endorsed candidate. Councilmember Roe clarified that his opinion was no reflection on the qualifications and abilities of Ms. Schaffer, but his philoso- phical point of view; and while he respected other Councilmember views, opined that he could not support the motion. Roll Call Vote Councilmember Pust: Abstained Councilmember Roe: Nay Councilmember Iblan: Aye Mayor Klausing: Nay Motion failed. Roe moved, Pust seconded, appointment of Robert Willmus to the City Council position made vacant upon the death of Tom Kough. Councilmember Roe spoke to the motion listing Mr. Willmus' attributes com- pared to former Councilmember Kough opining that he was respectful; non- confrontational in nature; a good listener; knowledgeable of city issues; thought- ful in his approach to issues; past communications on some issues before the City Council, and while not always in agreement, providing a factual and respectful point of view; and his enthusiasm and passion for service to the community. Councilmember Ihlan, unrelated to the qualification and abilities of Mr. Willmus, reiterated her opinion that such appointment would result in an unaccountable ap- pointee not having stood for election and not tested by the democratic process. Mayor Klausing opined his frustration with the perceptions and interpretations of the democratic process; and noted his support of former Councilmember Dean Maschka to serve as the interim appointee for reasons stated previously. Councilmember Roe responded to Councilmember Ihlan's previous comments on "kingmakers" and questioned why "your king is better than my king." Council-