Kessler elected to succeed Brennan
(In back from left) Councilmen Rick Weber, who was named president of Bexley City Council, Steve Keyes and Matt Lampke stand to applaud Ben Kessler after he was sworn in as mayor of Bexley during a special meeting on Feb. 6. In a unanimous vote, the council appointed Kessler. Buy This Photo
Ben Kessler, 33, became one of central Ohio’s youngest mayors Feb. 6 when he was selected by Bexley City Council to succeed the late John Brennan.
Kessler’s appointment was unanimous.
While Bexley resident Mike Mayo submitted his name for consideration one hour before the special meeting began, council members said there was no doubt in their minds that Kessler was the man for the job.
Councilman Mark Masser said he thought opening up a public application process for the mayoral appointment was unnecessary.
“For me, it’s a matter of finding the best person,” Masser said. “It’s a matter of acting swiftly. I know what the mayor’s wishes were. É We knew this day possibly would come. It just happened to come sooner and we’re all sorry for that. There are good people out there. There are probably some great people out there but I don’t see anyone that’s even close to being a Ben Kessler to be the next mayor of Bexley.”
Masser added that Brennan told him he wanted Kessler to be his successor.
Councilman Rick Weber also weighed in on Kessler’s behalf.
“I’ve served on this council for 22 years and I’ve served with some amazing individuals, very competent individuals and very committed individuals” Weber said. “Never, in a four-year span have I felt a greater commitment and a greater amount of energy than exudes from Ben.
“The residents know that also and that’s the reason for the votes that he acquired. I’m totally comfortable and would want to promote Ben as mayor. He wants the job. He has handled it on an interim basis very efficiently and I think this community will be served very well by Ben.”
Kessler was immediately sworn in by city attorney Lou Chodosh. Weber was elected to serve as council president and the process was discussed for filling Kessler’s seat on city council.
Interested residents should submit applications by noon Friday, Feb. 24, to the mayor’s office. City council will review the applications and discuss next steps at its Feb. 28 meeting.
Applicants are encouraged to attend that meeting in the event that any discussion or interview process is held.
Applications can include a resume, cover letter and list of qualifications. They should be submitted to Kessler by email dmaynard@bexley.org , or by dropping them off at Bexley City Hall. Those with questions may call the mayor’s office at (614) 559-4200.
