HOPE — The first-year president of the Hope Town Council has stepped down from that leadership position. However, Ed Johnson will continue to serve as a council member.
By a 3-2 vote during Tuesday’s council meeting, Ohmer Miller was chosen as the council’s new president, with Clyde Compton and Jerry Bragg casting nay votes without comment. Johnson, Nellie Meek and Miller voted in favor of Miller becoming the council president.
The council serves as the legislative and executive branches of government for the community of 2,100 residents.
Since Hope does not have a mayor, the council president has extensive control over scheduling meetings, ordinances and resolutions. The council president also has the ability to make specific declarations on behalf of the community.
While maintaining a calm demeanor as the council went through its Tuesday agenda, Johnson became emotional as he announced his intentions to step down as council president just before the meeting was adjourned.
His wife, Hope community leader Barb Johnson, has experienced complications after undergoing back surgery and caring for her must take precedence over other matters, Johnson said.
Town manager J.T. Doane and utilities superintendent David Clouse said they had no prior knowledge that Johnson would make the announcement.
After the meeting, other council members and town employees focused on offering comfort and support to Johnson, Doane said.
Johnson was elected to the council in November 2016. He was elected council president in December 2017.
