In a called meeting Monday night of the Italy City Council, Paul Cockerham and Steven Farmer were sworn in as new members. Franky Jackson was also elected but was not in attendance to be sworn in.

Even though there were several items on the agenda for the council to consider and vote on, they could only canvass the votes and swear in the newly elected members. Mayor Hobbs and Councilman Greg Richards were the only two in attendance.

“We are allowed to canvass the votes with only two of us here,” said Mayor James Hobbs. “To conduct a called meeting, we must have four council members present to establish a quorum. For a regular meeting it only takes three.”

Hobbs explained that Mayor Pro Tem Rodney Guthrie was working from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. so he could not attend. He also explained that Jackson had a doctor’s appointment.

During citizen’s comment, Frank Boyer congratulated the newly elected council members and said that he hoped the council would work together for the betterment of the community.

Karen Mathiowetz shared information found in an article in the Waxahachie Daily Light regarding a financial transparency award that the City of Waxahachie had received recently. She encouraged the city to do whatever it takes to make finances more transparent to receive the same award.

Before the meeting ended, Rodger Jackson addressed the mayor. “I want to know who counted the votes for the last election,” said Jackson. “There has been so much crap going on that I don’t trust anyone.” Teri Murdoch gave him the info he had requested.

Council member comments:

Greg Richards congratulated Cockerham and Farmer and said he looked forward to working with them.

Steven Farmer thanked everyone for their support over the last year and said he was ready to work with this group of guys. He then apologized to a citizen for the conduct of Chief Hill. He stated that this type of behavior would not be tolerated any longer.

Paul Cockerham said that he wanted to hear from the citizens and encouraged everyone to contact him with questions or problems and added he could not make any promises, but would try to help.

Mayor Hobbs adjourned the meeting at 6:36.

Comment from John R. Droll, 5/20/14-8:25pm

I’d like to congratulate our 2 new council members and wish them and the entire council success as they come together to benefit the City.