Indianola Mayor Ken Featherstone says that he plans to veto the board of aldermen's decision to hire Stephanie Washington as city clerk.
The vote to hire Washington, who has served as the city’s contracted financial advisor since the fall, passed 4-1, with Ward 4 Alderman Marvin Elder casting the lone nay vote. Featherstone immediately announced his intent to veto the motion, citing his concerns over Washington’s commitment to the job.
"The job of city clerk, I think that a job as critical as a city clerk, I think we need more of a solid commitment," Featherstone said during the meeting at the Indianola City Hall Annex.
This statement stemmed from what Featherstone described as Washington's previous refusals of the city clerk position. Featherstone told the board that Washington had turned down the job on three separate occasions, raising questions about her long-term dedication.
Washington had not been presented for hire during any prior public meeting.
He suggested Washington continue her role as a financial consultant while seeking a candidate with strong clerical experience.
Ward 1 Alderman Gary Fratesi, who made the motion to hire Washington, argued that she was the most qualified candidate and had demonstrated her ability to handle the responsibilities. He also expressed urgency in filling the position due to concerns about overdue audits.
"I think she’s been doing a good job and I think she’s finally saw the error of her ways, and she’s more committed now," Fratesi said.
He also expressed concerns about the city’s finances.
Ward 2 Alderman Darrell Simpson seconded Fratesi’s motion.
The board's 4-1 vote indicates that there may be enough votes to override the mayor's veto, which requires four.
City Attorney Derek Hopson advised the board that the mayor has 10 days to formally submit a written veto document.
Fratesi expressed frustration with the delay, emphasizing the financial strain and audit backlogs facing the city.
Featherstone countered, stating that while the need for a city clerk was urgent, the city was "not desperate."
Fratesi “respectfully” disagreed with the mayor’s assessment, stating that the city was in “desperate need” of a city clerk.
The board will now await the mayor's formal veto document before considering an override.
