LEETONIA — New village councilman William Merdich was sworn in Wednesday before taking his seat in council chambers for his first meeting.

Right after roll call, Mayor Kevin Siembida allowed Merdich to cast votes on all the matters of action.

All members were in attendance but Bill Garlough.

Siembida also provided members with an update on the search to fill the village administrator’s job, saying that several interviews with potential candidates have been scheduled and he hopes to fill the position by August.

Currently Brandon French is still occupying those duties in addition to his job as chief operating utilities director.

Siembida also announced that the next phase of the community center appears to finally be moving forward, and the design firm would be on hand at the next meeting with a new rendering based on modifications made to the project.

Council also passed three action items: employment of Daniel Haight as an auxiliary police officer, the purchase of six hydrants at $4,000 each for $24,000, and a resolution amending the 2025 annual appropriations with emergency language.

Council’s next meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 16 in village hall.