Medvigy, Belkot to lead county council in 2024
The Clark County Council has a new chair and vice chair. District 4 Councilor Gary Medvigy will serve as chair and District 2 Councilor Michelle Belkot will serve as vice chair.
As per the county’s rules of procedure, the council must elect a chair and vice chair at the first regular meeting of the year. Medvigy was nominated by District 3 Councilor – and outgoing chair – Karen Bowerman.
“I just wanted to personally say ‘Thanks’ for everything you’ve done the last couple of years. Stepping in when Eileen (Quiring O’Brien) left precipitously and then doing an amazing job through very, very challenging circumstances,” Medvigy said to Bowerman.
Medvigy has had plenty of practice helming the council meetings, especially in recent months. As vice chair throughout 2023, Medvigy stepped in to lead the council meetings when Bowerman was absent due to undisclosed health issues.
Medvigy then nominated Belkot for the vice chair position, which Bowerman seconded. The council again voted unanimously in favor.
Belkot could have a tough time convincing some constituents that she’s up for the challenge. Like Bowerman, Belkot has faced criticism for being absent from council meetings several times in the past year as well as rarely attending meetings in person.
Although Belkot did attend Tuesday’s meeting in person, she attended Wednesday’s meeting remotely.
Bowerman said she hoped the councilors would continue to work together in a collaborative and congenial manner, even when they don’t agree.
“May 2024 bring health, abundant joy, and step forward to bring us closer to our collective vision for Clark County,” Bowerman said.
To watch the full meeting, go to https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings.
— Shari Phiel
