Sun staff
The Batavia Village Council appointed Bill Raper II to replace councilman Earl Carter after his death.
Council unanimously chose Raper over two other candidates on May 4 during the regular council meeting.
“I’m just very humbled and happy to be able to serve,” Raper said.
The council has 30 days from Carter’s death to appoint a replacement otherwise the mayor would appoint one. Carter’s term expires on Dec. 31, 2017, so Raper will serve until then, and then run for election if he chooses.
Raper has lived in the village since he got married in 1995, except for two years when he moved away, he told council. His grandchildren will be sixth generation Batavia High School students.
Raper is involved in the community with activities such as coaching. He also is part of A Stronger Batavia, a group that aims to make the Batavia community more connected.
He worked for Procter and Gamble in pet care for 10 years until Mars, Inc., bought it and is now a Mars employee.
“I want to see that thriving village once again for (my grandchildren),” Raper said.
Raper believes Batavia needs increased residency and more businesses. He commended council on what they’ve done to grow the village.
“I think you’re right on the edge of making the village of Batavia a destination location again,” Raper said. He sought the council seat because he wanted to be a part of that.
Mayor John Thebout was pleased to see the amount of interest in the position. He believes residents have noticed what council has been doing and that is creating more interest in being part of council.
“I think people are really wanting to be a part of what they’ve seen in the past here in the last few years,” Thebout said.