POLAND — Village Council received a surprise at its Wednesday meeting when a letter was received from Samuel Moffie, saying he is stepping down as councilman effective immediately, leaving an empty seat to be filled for the balance of 2025.

“Yes I did step down after eight years, regrettably retired by the voters,” Moffie said. “It was an honor to serve those eight years with outstanding people. I left earlier hoping that the mayor will appoint Becky Rudzik for the next two months so she can hit the ground running.”

Council accepted the resignation letter, but did not move to fill the vacancy right away.

“Village Council will hold an election to fill the vacancy at its regular meeting on Nov. 18 and will accept letters of interest from any interested candidate until the close of business on Nov. 17,” Council President Michael Thompson said.

He said the state statute states council will have 30 days to fill the seat. Whoever is selected will fill out the remainder of Moffie’s term, which runs through Dec. 31.

Thompson said it came as a surprise following election night. In the complete but unofficial results, Moffie captured 16% of the vote while challenger Becky Rudzik received 22%.

Thompson spoke highly of Moffie, even though the two often clashed at meetings.

“While Councilman Moffie and I frequently disagreed, he did a great deal of good for the people of Poland Village,” Thompson said. “He was especially adept at securing outside funds for major projects, and a number of them might not have happened without his efforts. He should be thanked for his contributions to the Mauthe Bridge restoration, the future Forest Connector, and the future Sheridan Road project, among others. While we disagreed on many issues, I believe that Sam was always motivated by what he believed was right for the people of Poland. I would like to thank him for his service to the village, and I hope that the residents of our community will take the time to thank him as well.”

Mayor Tim Sicafuse said the resignation came as a surprise to the whole council on Wednesday.

“I want to thank him for his eight years,” Sicafuse said. “We are going to miss his candor. We wish him the best of luck going forward.”

Sicafuse said letters of interest to fill the vacancy can be dropped off at Village Hall during regular business hours, or can be mailed to Poland Village Council, 308 S. Main St., Poland, OH 44514.