Sedalia opens applications to replace former councilman who is under investigation
Ryan Shiner
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
The City of Sedalia has announced that it is taking applications for its open Ward 1 City Council seat.
Tom Oldham stepped down from his position last week after “serious allegations” were brought against him, the City of Sedalia wrote in a social media post. The city did not elaborate on the allegations in the post or in communications with ABC 17 News.
Pettis County Sheriff Brad Anders told ABC 17 News in emails that his office is investigating Oldham. The criminal investigation includes the possible sexual harassment of a youth. Oldham was recently reelected to his seat in the April 8 race.
The city had stated last week that it would follow state statutes, allowing the mayor to make an appointment to the council, with council approval. The city wrote in a post that this process is “going beyond state requirements.”
“We want this process to reflect the values of our city—honesty, inclusion, and public service,” Mayor Andrew Dawson was quoted in the post. “If you live in the First Ward and care about where we’re headed, I encourage you to apply. Your voice matters, and your perspective could help shape Sedalia’s future.”
The post says first ward residents “who’s interested in local government and community improvement is encouraged to apply.”
Applications are available online on the city’s website or can be picked up at the City Clerk’s Office. Completed application to the City Clerk’s Office at jmyers@sedalia.com.
Applicants who are moving to the next phase will be interviewed in-person in the council chambers, the post says. Interviews will be streamed online and will be available for later viewings, the post says.
Dawson will pick a candidate for approval afterwards. However, “if no clear fit emerges, the process will remain open until the right person steps forward,” the post says. A timeline for the process was not stated in the post.
“At this time, there’s no fixed deadline for the appointment. Our priority is not speed, it’s making sure we find the right person to represent Ward 1. The process will remain open as long as needed to ensure thoughtful review, community involvement, and a candidate who truly reflects the values of the ward,” city spokesperson Jessica Hoffman wrote in a Friday afternoon email to ABC 17 News.