Government : Gates seated as 4th Ward Councilman

Bethany Gates was sworn in at Thursday's City Council meeting to fill the 4th Ward seat that was empty upon the passing of Council Member Nathan Hesson.

The Council met in a work session on Wednesday evening to interview those who had submitted applications of which there were 8. Following the interviews, the council unanimously chose Gates as the next Council Member at the Thursday night meeting.

Present at the meeting were the Hesson family who gave their blessing to Gates as she was seated on the council. Emotions ran high as the oath was administered and the seat changed hands.

"Nathan Hesson was an amazing champion for the city of Vinton, and he left very big shoes to fill. He was a phenomenal representative for our community, and he took his duties seriously, with eagerness and passion.

I'm excited for the opportunity to represent Vinton's 4th Ward, and am humbled by the gracious support and encouragement from Nathan's family. I'm honored to serve in Nathan's stead for the remainder of his term, and hope to be able to continue his legacy and help guide Vinton in becoming an even greater place to live, work, and raise a family," said Gates.

Gates is the wife of Judah and mother of four daughters, Liana, Ari, Tali and Gemma. She is also a homeschool mother and a midwife operating Shiphrah Birth Services in Vinton. She loves to run in her spare time.

With an interest in politics, Gates has filled several volunteer positions working her way up through the county levels and to a position at the state level before stepping back to pursue her career as a midwife.

She will fill the seat until the November election when it will be on the ballot.