Schutzbach Discusses Reports on Fuesting's Future as Chief

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Published on April 18 2019 12:56 pm
Last Updated on April 18 2019 12:56 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

Effingham Mayor-Elect Mike Schutzbach Thursday said he is not ready to go on the record regarding appointments to be made when the new City Council takes office in May.

Schutzbach was asked about reports that Police Chief Jeff Fuesting will not be reappointed as chief. He said that it is "probably out of school" to discuss the matter. He said discussing personnel is a matter for closed session and it's not fair to the employee to be a topic for open session.

Tuesday was the last regular meeting for the current Council. During the meeting, Commissioner Kevin Esker said it was his understanding that Fuesting would not be reappointed. While Commissioner Don Althoff said it was his understanding that not everyone would be reappointed, Esker specifically mentioned Fuesting.

Schutzbach said, "It's not responsible" to discuss personnel matters in open session.

The new Council will be sworn in on May 7. While Schutzbach will take over as mayor, Hank Stephens, Larry Micenheimer and Libby Moeller will join Merv Gillenwater as city commissioners.