By By MARCIA STEFFENS / Cassopolis Vigilant
CASSOPOLIS - The Village of Cassopolis recall election Tuesday was extremely close with the village president and two council members losing their seats.
Village President Julia Bell, along with council members William Curry and Maxine Snipes all lost by less than 20 votes.
The original reason for the recall, started by Stone Lake resident Walter Malone, read that the person up for recall "neglected his (or her) responsibility as an elected official because he (or she) voted not to supervise the village manager. As a result, by voting not to provide supervision, the village will have to pay fines, legal fees and refunds of more than $250,000 for housing grants and dumping of sewage."
Each of the three up for recall were able to add statements to the ballot.
Two members up for recall contended the wording was false, with some actions done before they were even on the council. Bell contended she had but one vote, where the majority rules.
The three council members will be removed from the council immediately with the remaining members making appointments for the vacancies until a special election can be held in the village of Cassopolis in November.