WILMINGTON — Bill Liermann was appointed by the Clinton County Republican Central Committee to fill the vacant Wilmington City Council seat previously held by Randi Milburn, who recently resigned that seat.
Liermann will be sworn in by Mayor John Stanforth at the next council meeting on Thursday, Dec. 15.
During a special meeting Monday night at Cape May Retirement Village, the committee heard three local residents present their cases why they should be chosen to fill the vacant seat.
Kristi Fickert, the granddaughter of former Clinton County Sheriff Ralph Fizer, Sr., said watching campaigns from start to finish helped put a fire in her. Fickert said her job experience at a real estate development company and being born and raised in Wilmington were qualities that helped make her a worthy candidate for the position.
Liermann, who previously served on council from 1985 to 1993, spoke about how he wanted to return to council in 2013 but didn’t receive the nomination. Others told him that since he was, at the time, appointed to the Wilmington School Board, he needed to dedicate his time to that. Since his time on the board is done, he wants to be a part of the council again.
Carter Cockman spoke on behalf on James Williams, who also sought a nomination. Williams was not present due to a business engagement.
Both Liermann and Fickert received endorsements from committee members for a nomination. After committee members held a brief discussion, the votes were cast, with Liermann receivng eight votes to Fickert’s four.
Liermann felt humbled and gratified to be appointed.
“I wish there were two spots open so Kristi could get in,” Liermann said. “I’m energized and I’m excited. I know I have some big shoes to fill and big tasks ahead of me.”
Inspired by former council member Loren Stuckert, Liermann stated that he wants to be a watchdog over the taxpayers’ money.
“We got five years with this temporary tax increase and we’ve got to spend it right,” said Liermann.
Fickert said she didn’t feel dejected about losing the chair — she stated she will consider looking into future opportunities for city positions.
“This was my first time going for something like this. It was a great experience and I’m looking forward to being involved in the future,” said Fickert.
