New Batavia alderman to be sworn in Monday
Kevin Botterman, a resident of Batavia for 11 years, will replace Steve Vasilion as 5th Ward alderman and will be sworn in Monday.
The city council chose Botterman after interviewing him and Mark Foster Tuesday night.
Botterman and his wife, Lori, were co-managers of Vasilion's 2013 campaign. Alderman Dan Chanzit asked if Botterman could put aside any bias when voting on projects that involve Vasilion, who is an architect, or Vasilion's clients.
Botterman pointed out that he is acquainted with, and has friendships with, several aldermen and many residents, including Vasilion.
"While a friend (of Vasilion), I don't think I would have any issue if a 'no' vote was required in opposition to a subject he was proposing, either on his behalf or his company's point," Botterman said.
Alderman Marty Callahan said the "basic job duty" of aldermen was to represent the people, and asked Botterman what that meant to him. Botterman said he understands that an alderman is often a point person on issues for a ward and its constituents, such as getting a pothole repaired. But the role goes beyond that, Botterman said.
"The idea, from a philosophical point ... my goal is to represent the entire city of Batavia," he said. He said for example, when the council was considering an industrial/commercial development last year on Kirk Road, which neighbors protested, he went out to view the site, which is in the 1st Ward.
Vasilion resigned due to the potential for conflict of interest between his job and his city duties. He recently reopened his own architectural firm, which concentrates on local projects.
Botterman's term expires in April 2017.