Council hopefuls line up

By Meg Olson

So far five local residents have applied to fill John Hobberlin’s spot on city council when he steps down at the end of March.

Ward 3 resident Martin Conyac is a retired federal geologist. In his application he said he is looking for an opportunity to learn about the town for a six -month trial period before the four-year position is up for election in the fall.

Arsenio Credo Jr., from ward 1, is a retired member of the U.S. Marine Corps who has worked as a cook for the Alaska state ferry system. His application states he has a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Alaska and is working on a PhD. in finance.

Leona Hattery, ward 1, has lived in Blaine for 25 years and served as a library board member and school volunteer. She wants to thank the community by serving for the remainder of the year, her application states.

Also from ward 1 is Terry Pilant, who has been a fixture at city council meetings for the last few months. He is the branch manager at Livingston customs brokers and vice-chairman of the county’s Libertarian party. He said he is running for council to defend the rights and interests of Blaine citizens and make sure the city operates without imposing an undue tax burden on its citizens.

Finally, David White from ward 1, unseated in the last election by John Liebert, is looking to get back on the dais. “I am the only person who can get the funding needed for the wastewater treatment plant,” he claims in his application. “If you don’t deal with me now one of you will have to deal with me in November.”

City council has 90 days after Hobberlin’s departure to appoint a replacement, or county council will step in and fill the position. The deadline to apply for the position is Friday, and city council will begin reviewing applications. City clerk Shirley Thorsteinson expects council to interview candidates at the March 26 or April 9 meeting.