Chillicothe City Council voices opinions on Chief of Staff position

CHILLICOTHE — Several members of Chillicothe City Council recently gave their opinions about the proposed Chief of Staff position from the Mayor's Office. While some are for this new position others believe the money could be spent in other ways.

Many of the council members noted that they had received comments from concerned citizens regarding the funding of this position.

Councilman Dan DeMint did not directly say if he was for or against the position but stated he would like to hear more about it and any alternatives that may be available.

For the Position

Councilwoman Deidra Nickerson said she was in support of this position as she believes it will help the city run more efficiently which could help with development and growth. She said she thinks the new position could also help the city as it searches for more grant funding.

Against the Position

Councilman Jeff Creed said while looking at other cities, like Athens, Lancaster, Circleville and more, he noted that they do not have full-time a Chief of Staff position. In his comments, he mentioned that he believes there are enough management positions in the city and those positions may be able to be better utilized to complete the goals of the new position.

Creed believes that first responders, such as police and firefighters, in the community would better benefit from these funds. He mentioned understaffing and how a lack of officers and EMS could be a detriment to the citizens of the community.

"We need to focus on safety service staffing and getting those up to safe levels," said Creed.

Councilwoman Allison Henderson agreed with Creed citing multiple instances where she and her family have felt unsafe in town. She said the money could be better spent on positions that keep the city "functioning" and "moving" such as an assistant law director, utility positions and a wastewater supervisor.

Councilwoman Lisa Bennett said many people have asked her why this position was never mentioned when Mayor Luke Feeney was running for reelection.

Councilman Greg McKeever questioned current staffing at the mayor's office and how this would impact other positions that already assist the mayor.

Councilman Steve Barnes stated that he had received comments from those he represents all of which were asking council to oppose the new position as they are more concerned with their safety.

"People are concerned," said Barnes. "People of Chillicothe are concerned about their safety and rightfully so."