Violet Approved as Ward 3 Replacement Alderman

St. Peters Ward 3 once again has two representatives on the Board of Aldermen.

During Thursday's special meeting to appoint a replacement for Gus Elliott, who resigned Sept. 13, the board unanimously approved Mayor Len Pagano's appointment of Terri Violet.

Violet received affirmative votes from all the aldermen present. Fellow Ward 3 Alderman Tommy Roberts was absent from the meeting. Ward 2 Alderman Judy Bateman said she wished the vote could take place when Roberts was at the meeting since he would be working closely with Violet.

Jerry Hollingsworth, Ward 2, said during the discussion portion that while he was planning on voting yes, he would rather the board not fill the seat with an appointment. He made it clear that it had nothing to do with Violet, but rather the process. 

"I have no feelings of disregard to Terri Violet," Hollingsworth said. "I would prefer the voting public in Ward 3 to pick their alderman."

Ward 4 Alderman Don Aytes said he would be voting for Violet because of her record working with commissions and volunteering for various city events. 

"I like to see people that really take an interest in the city," Aytes said. 

Violet's appointment fills Elliott's seat until the next Municipal Election on April 2, 2013. If Violet chooses to run to maintain the seat, she will be participating in her third consecutive April election.

"I want to thank Mayor Pagano, the board, my family and all of those that have confidence in my ability to represent Ward 3," Violet said in a statement. "During most of my life I have been involved in service to my country and this community. Serving as an alderman is an honor and a very humbling opportunity. I look forward to working with my new colleagues and effectively serving both the residents of Ward 3 and the city of St. Peters. I promise to insure that our city's resources, for which I am now a steward, are used wisely and my choices reflect the values of our residents. My door is open and I'm ready to go to work."