Council looking to approve health board representative

Term to be possibly extended another five years

A resolution to approve the appointment of an Amherst and Oberlin representative for the Lorain County Public Health Board was brought to Amherst City Council on March 8. With his current term ending March 30 of this year, Edward von Hofen is seeking his third five-year term with the board. “Oberlin’s been happy with him, and as far as I’ve dealt with him, we should be happy with him,” said Mayor Mark Costilow during the meeting. Von Hofen’s new term, if approved by Council, would start April 1 and end March 30, 2024. The city of Oberlin also has to approve the appointment. Lorain County Public Health officials said von Hofen has also served as president of the board about six years ago. Board presidents are voted on and rotated among members. Councilman Martin Heberling said since von Hofen is a representative of Amherst, it’s a good idea to have him report to Council or attend a meeting. “I think it would be a good idea to at least touch base with him, especially if we’re going to be going in for another five years,” Heberling said. “That seems like a pretty big commitment and, to be honest with you, if he’s doing things on our behalf, I think it would be in our interest to invite him in, hear what he has to say.” Councilman David Janik agreed that Council should remain in contact with von Hofen and could send Council meeting minutes and receive health board minutes in part of that contact. “I think it’s great that he’s volunteering to do the position,” Janik said. Council president Jennifer Wasilk said she will work with Costilow to have von Hofen attend Council’s next meeting March 11.