Wetzel Sworn In as Interim Powell Mayor

Local businessman and long-time Powell City Council President John Wetzel was sworn in as Powell’s interim mayor Tuesday.

According to an article in the Powell Tribune, the unanimous vote was conducted at Tuesday’s council meeting, filling the void left by the death of Mayor Don Hillman. Hillman died Feb. 4 following a battle with cancer.

Wetzel, who is the general manager of the Buyers Guide in Cody, will serve as mayor for the remainder of Hillman’s term, and the seat will open again during the next general election, in November 2018. At that time, if he chooses, Wetzel can seek re-election for the final two years of the term.

The Tribune reports that the council will soon begin asking for letters of interest to fill Wetzel’s now-vacant council seat from Ward 2. Those interested in submitting a letter must live in that ward, which includes the western part of Powell.

Wetzel commented that the city has been left in good shape from Hillman’s time in office. City Administrator Zane Logan added that Wetzel’s experience on the council will serve him well as mayor, and the transition should be a smooth one.

*Photo from Powell Tribune