PERRYSVILLE — Village Council opened its Monday meeting with a moment of silence for Council Member Robert “Bob” Zakutni.
Council is seeking applicants to fill a vacant council seat following the death of Zakutni on July 22.
Zakutni served on Village Council beginning Jan. 1, 2026. The remainder of his term runs through Dec. 31, 2029.
During his time on council, Zakutni served on the Green Union Cemetery Committee and the Finance Committee. Village officials described him as a dedicated community leader committed to Perrysville’s continued growth and well-being.
Council members said they will accept letters of interest through Aug. 14 before selecting someone to serve the remainder of Zakutni’s term. Under Ohio law, council has 30 days to fill the vacancy.
The council member appointed to the seat will work with the mayor and other council members on local legislation, municipal policies, the village’s annual budget and community infrastructure needs.
Mayor Steve Goines said one letter of interest had been received as of Monday’s meeting.
Applicants should submit a letter of interest to the village office by email at village@perrysvilleohio.gov. Council members will review submissions before meeting in executive session to discuss candidates. The decision will be made through a public vote.
Council members also discussed whether a spouse of a current or former council member could be considered for the vacancy. Councilman William Herman said applicants cannot be picked because of their relationship and must be considered under the same legal standards as other applicants.
“I think that’s a whole separate rule than this. I don’t think that’s legal, we would have to offer it to everybody,” Herman said.
The vacancy has also delayed appointments to several council committees and boards, including the cemetery board and finance committee. Council members said they plan to complete those appointments after selecting a new council member.
During the discussion, council members encouraged more residents to apply.
“We just want anyone who’s interested at all,” Goines said. “Just getting more applicants.”
