Schaub appointed councilwoman in Ford City

Feb. 26--Vicki Schaub was appointed on Monday to fill the two-year unexpired term of First Ward Councilwoman Kim Bish on the Ford City Council.

Schaub was one of four residents to apply for the position that Bish left in January for health reasons.

Jerry Miklos, who was one of three council members to interview candidates before the vote, said the decision was a difficult one.

"Her business and finance experience was exceptional," he said.

The council voted 4-1 to appoint Schaub. Councilman Gene Banks, who also was on the interview panel, voted against the appointment. Schaub was sworn in on Tuesday by District Judge Gary DeComo.

Schaub graduated from Ford City High School in 1974 and lives in the 600 block of Fifth Avenue with her husband, Dave. She has two children and two grandchildren.

Schaub owned and managed Vick's Frosty Mug in Boggs with her former husband and helped him run his two construction companies.

"I learned every aspect of payroll, insurance and working with the public," she said.

Schaub said she has never shied away from hard work.

"I started cleaning houses when I was 11 and was waitressing at 15," she said.

Schaub is on disability because of problems stemming from fibromyalgia. She said she has been up front about her health and doesn't believe it will interfere with her position on council.

"I hope people will be open and come to me -- and I'll find the answer," she said in a tone that seemed a blend of confidence and humility.

Schaub said she wants to serve the community and learn as much as she can about issues impacting the town -- especially concerning the proposed water plant.

Council has explored options about whether the borough should fix its aging 90-year-old water plant, build a proposed $2.2 million plant or contract with outside water suppliers. No decision has been made, but council agreed on Monday to enter discussions with Pennsylvania-American Water to negotiate for a low-cost water rate.

"It's a very big decision," she said, adding that she wants to learn about the most effective option and use that information to help educate residents so they can help decide what's best for the town.

"I hope to show in black and white which is the most feasible way," she said.

She plans to meet with all council members individually to learn more about council's priorities and proposed projects.

"I hope and pray to God that I can do what's best," she said.

Brigid Beatty is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. She can be reached at 724-543-1303 or [email protected].

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