Four applicants apply to sit on city council; interviews set to begin

Interviews are expected to begin on Wednesday for the open city council seat. After seeking applicants, the City of Guthrie received four applicants.

In early December 2019, Gaylord Z. Thomas resigned his Ward III city council post. The council formally accepted the resignation the following week.

The four applicants, include Danny Smith, Britt Smith, Wendi Foust and Sharyl Padgett. All four applicants are expected to go through a one hour interview.

Danny Smith, retired, currently is a member of the City’s Park Board.

“Ward 3 is growing and has needs that are neglected,” Danny Smith said. “We need a council member that will be a strong advocate for, and that lives on, the west side.”

Britt Smith, who is employed with Tinker, says infrastructure is one of his three key concerns.

“Conditions of the schools and education for our children, city infrastructure and promotion of our City as a great place to live and work,” Britt Smith said.

Foust, who serves as a Worship Office Leader with Life.Church, says she would like to protect the historical charm and encourage growth.

“Young professionals are searching for a slower pace, and want to know their neighbors,” Foust said

Padgett, who is the current chair for the City’s Planning Commission, served six years as a city council member before dropping the Ward III election in 2019.

“Economic growth to add jobs and helping reduce poverty through working for a decent wage,” Padgett said on some of the issues she feels is important to Guthrie.

The open seat’s term is set to end in May 2021.

Mayor Steve Gentling and council members Jeff Taylor and Don Channel will conduct the interviews and make a formal recommendation to the council. Related article: Council member’s names drawn to sit on nominating committee

Following interviews, the council shall select, by an affirmative vote of at least four members to fill the vacancy.