Changes are in store for Syracuse city council and schools board in following Tuesday’s deadline for incumbents to file for re-election.

The Syracuse-Dunbar-Avoca School board has three seats up for election with incumbents Greg Mueller of Avoca and Dean Neels of Dunbar already on the ballot.

Incumbent Jerry Werner, a 14-year member of the school board who has served as the board treasurer for a decade, said it was hard decision not to seek re-election.

He said he feels privileged to be a part of board accomplishments, including the middle school concept and construction.

Werner, plant controller for PCS Phosphate in Weeping Water, said serving on the school board has been a rewarding experience and encouraged board members to keep focus on improving the district.

“The main interest should be the children and the community, and, when I say community, I mean the whole district,” he said.

Non-incumbents filing by Tuesday are Janet Harder of Unadilla and Craig Hemje of Syracuse.
For Syracuse City Council, incumbent Deb McWilliams did not file after serving two terms.
McWilliams, a program coordinator for the Nebraska State Historical Society, said she believes Syracuse will continue to progress in the years ahead.

Changes during her terms on the council include opening of a new swimming and baseball sports complex, as well as transitioning from a city police department to the Otoe County Sheriff’s Office.
Councilman Chris Lutjemeyer has filed for re-election.