Emmett appointed to replace Rink on City Council

PROPERTY TAXES

My key concern is property taxes and one concern is that we’re making it too expensive for families that have been here.”

Matt Emmitt, newly appointed FM City Councilman

FORT MADISON – The Fort Madison City Council picked a new councilman last night to fill the opening created by Kevin Rink’s resignation from an at-large council seat.
After interviewing three candidates for about 45 minutes, the council accepted a nomination from Rusty Andrews to install Matt Emmett as the next councilman.
The motion was seconded and Emmett received a unanimous vote with Rink abstaining.
The council also heard from Angela Mueller and James Hatfield.
Emmett is an AI tech specialist for a Canadian firm and works remotely out of his home in Fort Madison.
Emmett, who’s currently a commissioner on the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission, said he frequently attends council meetings and feels comfortable stepping in.
“Super excited to learn and contribute. There’s still a lot to learn,” Emmett said.
He said his top priority has to be property taxes.
“My key concern is property taxes and one concern is that we’re making it too expensive for families that have been here,” he said.
Emmett said he’s also been part of public budget hearings in the past and understands that city financing is a complex issue.
“I have gone to a couple budget hearings and asked some questions.  The budget hearing, in my opinion, is what they’ve already decided so I’m comfortable with those discussions. Now I have to learn,” Emmett said.
Emmett works as a technician specializing in Artificial Intelligence. He also owns the Hillside Inn. He’s an active citizen, sat on Mayor Matt Mohrfeld’s pillar growth committees, as well as being a Planning and Zoning Commissioner.
On his application Emmett indicated he wanted to help Fort Madison grow and thrive by applying his skills, leadership, experience, and deep commitment to the community’s future.
Emmett will assume his duties at the council's March 4 meeting. He was officially appointed to the Council at its regular meeting following the interview session.
The city was looking into whether or not Emmett would have to resign his position on the planning and zoning commission.