NEW PARIS — The Village of New Paris has a new council member and a new council president. During a meeting on Monday, April 2, New Paris resident Kim Fields was sworn in as a new council member, with members noting her financial expertise will be a benefit to the village.

Due to former-President Kathy Smallwood being appointed mayor, there was a vacancy in regards to Council President. Nominations were opened, with Mary Jane Thomas and Ralph Dungan being nominated by their peers. Mayor Smallwood was the tie breaker, voting for Dungan, after noting that Thomas’ health was a concern.

In other business, during the meeting it was reported for March, the NP Police Department handled 120 calls for service, made 27 reports, four arrests, issued 10 citations, and served 15 warrants. All officers completed their yearly taser training in March. Also, the police department was able to dispose of two abandoned vehicles.

“I just want to make the public aware, for the last couple years we have had a prescription drop box over here at the department. We take everything from pills to over the counter prescription forms, but we do not accept liquids or syringes. People are more than welcome to bring old prescriptions here and we will take care of that for you,” Chief Jeremy Schroeder said.

In other news:

•The village’s Workers Compensation insurance needs to be renewed and has increased $50 from last year.

•Council approved a proclamation making May Motorcycle Awareness Month. They were asked to do that and send a copy of the proclamation to a state organization.

Council will meet next on Monday, May 7, at 7 p.m. in the New Paris Village Building.