In another twist to the ongoing saga of the vacant Ward 1 alderman seat, the Warrenton Board of Alderman could not make a final decision regarding the position because Mayor Eric Schleuter was unable to attend a special meeting June 2.
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In another twist to the ongoing saga of the vacant Ward 1 alderman seat, the Warrenton Board of Alderman could not make a final decision regarding the position because Mayor Eric Schleuter was unable to attend a special meeting June 2.
According to City Attorney Bradley Pryor, only the mayor can nominate someone for the seat and because the mayor was not present during the special meeting scheduled June 2, Pryor advised the board to simply open the meeting and then close the meeting without taking any action.
During a special meeting May 19 two candidates, current Ward 1 Alderman Jack Crump and Frank Cusumano, presented their case to be the newly appointed alderman.
The position became vacant following the April 7 municipal election, as the winner of the election, Cody Turner, died prior to the election date. This created a vacancy in the position that has not yet been filled.
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.
That meeting followed a May 5 meeting where originally four candidates had expressed interest in the position. Schleuter had proposed setting a special hearing for May 19 to allow any candidates the opportunity to address the board as to their qualifications, with a vote to follow on June 2.
