After the city of Warrenton extended the deadline to apply another couple of weeks, only two candidates stepped forward to apply for the Ward I alderman seat made open by the death of Cody Turner.

Those applicants are current Ward I Alderman Jack Crump and Frank Cusumano.

During the Board of Aldermen’s May 19 special meeting, both applicants had five minutes to present their qualifications to the board.

Cusumano said he has lived in Warrenton for five years and loves the community.

“In light of current events and the climate, I feel like I should be part of this community,” Cusumano said.

Cusumano said he has been married for 50 years and has five daughters. He previously worked for McDonnell Douglas in the security department. He also worked for Boeing.

Cusumano described himself as a representative of the silent majority.

“I have been in the silent majority for too long,” he said. “So I felt like I should step up to the plate. I think I can serve this community. I love it a lot.”

He said he understands current issues facing the city, including the data center.

Crump, a lifelong resident of Warrenton, has served as alderman since 2020. He is also involved in the Holy Rosary Catholic Church and with the Knights of Columbus. Crump and his wife Jill have three children. Crump said Warrenton has changed over the years and he touted his experience with the city and as an alderman.

He said during his time as alderman he served on several committees.

“I am passionate about supporting Warrenton and making choices that help our community thrive,” Crump said.

The board did not discuss the two applicants during the special meeting.

Mayor Eric Schleuter said the decision as to who would be the appointed alderman would occur at the board’s June 2 meeting.

“I didn’t want anybody to hear what people had to say and then make a fast decision,” Schleuter said, suggesting that board members consider the two applicants and possibly reach out to them to ask any questions they may have.