Milan mayor calls it quits

MILAN — Milan's mayor resigned from office less than a year into his term. In a letter to village residents, Mayor Ben Smith, who works at EHOVE Career Center, recently announced he would leave office effective Nov. 1, citing professional and personal reasons. "I have full-time employment in addition to the responsibilities of mayor," Smith wrote. "For the last 10 months, I have grappled with trying to fully commit to both positions. Unfortunately, this has become increasingly difficult, and it's unfair to myself and the people (who) rely on me." Smith, a lifelong Milan resident, ran unopposed for village mayor in last November's election and officially took office on the first of the year. He said it had been a great honor to serve his hometown as a council member, council president and, finally, mayor. "I made a promise that I would leave Milan in a better position than when I arrived," Smith said. "In my heart, I truly know that this has been the case." Despite his short tenure, he believes the administration accomplished a lot, including live-streaming all meetings and starting discussions with the state treasurer to put the village's finances on the Ohio Checkbook website. "What I have learned and the friendships that I have made will forever be part of who I am," Smith said. "I will proudly continue to be a champion and advocate for the village of Milan." As per the village's charters, council president Dave Jenkins will become mayor. The council will then vote for a new president and interview candidates to fill the vacated council seat.