The village of Bethel has filled long-time solicitor George Leicht’s position after he retired in August.

Julia Carney has taken over as solicitor for the village and said she is excited about her new responsibilities and is looking forward to the opportunity.

“I have a background in municipal law so I am familiar with many of the issues that affect villages and cities,” Carney said.

Carney, who grew up in Fairfield, moved to Clermont County after she graduated college and began working for Union Township.

Carney is currently a lawyer at Manley Burke, a legal association that advises several other villages in the area. She said the association contacted Bethel village officials when they heard Leicht was leaving, and officials decided to hire her as solicitor.

“I advise them on day-to-day issues that come up, and my background has a lot to do with planning and zoning,” Carney said about her duties. “Really, I am still getting my feet wet.”

She said she hopes to have a great working relationship with the current mayor, administrator and council members as well as the incoming officials after the November election is over.

“I just hope to provide great service to the village of Bethel,” Carney said.