Special Election Called to Replace Howard Stoner

The Schulenburg City Council voted Monday night to call a special election for Place 3 on the Council, which was vacated by the death of Councilman Howard Stoner last month.

Stoner died on Jan. 8 with more than a year remaining in his term. The Council could have appointed someone to fill the position. They decided to call an election instead during a special meeting on Monday, Jan. 30.

“I really think we ought to have a special election,” said Councilman Larry Veselka at Monday’s meeting.

“I think that’s the best way to do it, too,” said Councilman Clarence Ahlschlager.

The filing period for candidates to run in the special election for Place 3 will be from Feb. 5 to March 5.

The special election for the Place 3 seat will appear on the same ballot as the regular city elections scheduled for Saturday, May 7. Regular elections for Mayor, Place 1 and Place 2 on the Schulenburg City Council will also take place that day.

Place 1 incumbent Greg “Wolf ” Thomas has already filed for re-election. Place 2 incumbent Wendy Fietsam said she is moving outside of the City Limits and will not run for re-election. Mayor Elaine Kocian told the Record she has not yet decided whether she will run again. The filing period for those elections is currently underway and ends on Feb. 17.