By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
The meeting of the Bowling Green Democratic Central Committee began Tuesday evening with a moment of silence for City Councilman Neocles Leontis and ended with a round of virtual applause for Jeff Dennis, who will fill Leontis’ at-large seat on council.
“I’ve got some big shoes to fill,” said Dennis, a paralegal at Stearns & Hammer who previously worked at the Wood County Board of Elections. “I’m looking forward to getting to work.”
Leontis, who died last month, had three years left on his four-year City Council term.
Dennis was offered well wishes by Leontis’ wife, Vassiliki.
“I’d like to wish Jeff the best in this challenging work that’s ahead of him,” she said.
Vassiliki Leontis told Dennis to not be intimidated by her husband’s reputation.
“Don’t worry about Neocles’ shoes,” she said. “Well, this is your time, Jeff. Neocles would be very proud and happy.”
After the vote by the Bowling Green Democratic Central Committee members, Dennis was sworn into office by Wood County Common Pleas Judge Joel Kuhlman.
Kuhlman, who was recently sworn into his newly elected judgeship, previously served on Bowling Green City Council. The swearing in of a Democrat by a Democrat was notable since there has not been a Democratic Common Pleas Court judge in Wood County at least since the Civil War.
“We’re so excited Councilman Dennis will be carrying on the work of Neocles and beyond,” said Mike Zickar, head of the Wood County Democratic Party.
Dennis, ran for the Fourth Ward City Council seat in 2019 at the same time Leontis was running for the at-large seat. Though Dennis acknowledged he doesn’t have the same experience as Leontis, he said he has a passion for the job.
“I believe there are few who can rival my passion, understanding of, and commitment to the challenges and opportunities facing our community,” he said in his application.
