James Smiley, left, is sworn in to the Milford Town Council by Austin Rovenstine, secretary of the Kosciusko County Republican Party. A caucus to decide between him and fellow candidate Joe Shetler was held Tuesday, Jan. 2. Smiley will be filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Dr. Robert Cockburn. Photo by Lilli Dwyer.

By Lilli Dwyer
InkFreeNews

MILFORD — James Smiley was chosen to fill the vacant seat on the Milford Town Council at a caucus held Tuesday, Jan. 2. This will be his first time in public office.

Both Smiley and fellow candidate Joe Shetler filed to fill a seat left vacant by long-time council member Dr. Robert Cockburn.

Mike Ragan, chairman of the Kosciusko County Republican Central Committee, presided over the caucus to decide between the two candidates. Both gave a brief speech about their reasons for seeking the position and why they felt they would be a good fit.

Smiley, owner of Smiley’s Lawn Service and Lions Club member, cited his business experience and the emphasis he placed on budgeting and business sense while raising his children.

“When my kids were 14 and 12, I bought two pop machines and a candy machine. After they were paid for, my kids split the money 50-50 and that’s how they bought their first cars at the age of 16. That taught them that work ethic gets rewarded,” he said. “… We think that the most important thing that’s overlooked in people’s lives is what a budget is.”

Smiley also stated he believes in being very careful with money and setting it aside for rainy days. “I love this community and want to see it continue to prosper. I feel the taxpayers’ money is the most important job we are handed and we need to be very conservative with that money.”

Shetler is the former building commissioner for the town and board member for the Milford Food Bank. His speech cited his years of involvement with Milford and the problem-solving experience he gained running a heating and cooling business.

Following the speeches, votes were cast by John Beer, Steve Tucker and Dr. Bruce Lamb; Smiley was elected the winner.

“I’m shaking,” Smiley said after his win. “It’s an honor. I’m thinking about my kids growing up in the community and making it better for my family. That’s why I joined the Milford Lions Club, is to make our community better for the kids.”

Smiley stated his immediate plans for his future on the town council are “to listen.”

“I’m new, so I need to listen and learn,” he explained. “I’m not a politics person. I always vote, but I’ve got to learn.”

Cockburn, who is retiring from the seat he has held on the council since 2004, seems content with the state things are in following his departure.

“I don’t think I’ve ever let out of a town meeting with a chip on my shoulder. I think the town council has done a tremendous job, and the town workers. I can’t think of anything to criticize. I’d stay another twenty years, but to be fair, it’s time for someone else,” Cockburn said.