Council Boots Bumgardner

Rik Bumgardner Leaving Thursday's Meeting- Photo By Chris Lusher

After the pledge of allegiance and a small prayer proceeding began in the
council's special meeting to veto James "Rik" Bumgardner from his newly
appointed position as Personnel Director. Mayor David Felinton began the
meeting with a speech full of praise for Bumgardner. Felinton was followed
by Rev. Patterson who made statements to the council to disregard what they
think a former mayor may have done in this situation and to focus on the
problem at hand. It was then time for the citizens to voice their opinions
on the matter at hand.

First to the podium was Marshall University student body President Jasper
Black who had words of encouragement for Bumgardner and stated that
Bumgardner's disabilities had absolutely nothing to do with his ability to
perform said job. Citizen Marie Saunders spoke on Bumgardner's behalf as
well and also voiced her concern on council's apparent inability to come to
agreement on matters. A candidate for Bumgardners job, Sherry Lewis, also
spoke on his behalf and gave him high praise. After the citizens spoke it
was time to vote on the resolution.

Chairperson Mary Neely then took the votes from each council member.
Everyone on council voted yes except for Councilman Inscoe who was the lone
holdout, thus effectively terminating James "Rik" Bumgardner's position as
Personnel Director for the city of Huntington. Mayor Felinton then spoke of
his disgust with council and called the meeting a disgrace. The meeting was
then adjourned.