In a truly extraordinary event Tuesday night, the president of the Bellefontaine City Council got to weigh in on an important piece of legislation, and in doing so President Ben Stahler voted “no” to break a 3-3 tie by the council on what was called the “golf cart” ordinance. 

 The “golf cart” measure passed its first two readings with slim 4-3 margins, but Council Member Nick Davis, who twice voted yes on the ordinance, was absent Tuesday, and a vote to table the measure failed. 

The final vote was therefore taken, resulting in a 3-3 draw, necessitating Stahler to cast his vote – a firm “no” – on the matter, which killed the legislation.  

That the President of Council gets to vote is very rare indeed, and that Stahler got to vote on this hot button issue makes it even more remarkable. 

Listen to President Stahler explain how the rare event came about here. 

Be sure to follow the entire story of Tuesday’s meeting, – including info on a housing development, pay raises for city employees and officials and other city workings – grab a copy of our print edition, which comes out every Friday.