BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

OGDENSBURG – Ogdensburg City Council Michael Powers has been unanimously reappointed to the city council, but will need to win a special election in November to retain his seat in 2025.

The vacancy was created by Powers who announced he would be retiring from council in order to maximize retirement benefits as he is also ending his lengthy career at the department of corrections.

Powers had also served as New York State Corrections Officers and Police Benevolent Association President from 2014 to 2023.

Powers said he was acting on advice from the state comptroller's office.

While Powers retirement was largely a formality, the brief retirement triggered a charter requirement that a vacancy committee be formed and that recommendations be made  by the committee.

Former Deputy Mayor Steven Fisher expressed interest in the position, and was put forward as a candidate alongside Powers, but received no votes. 

Fisher was an outspoken member of council who decided not to run for reelection after his first term.

During his time on council Fisher supported various controversial actions including cuts to the fire and police departments.

Powers said he was humbled by the support from his fellow councilors and said he looked forward to serving the city.

There are two years remaining on the term being filled by Powers, but his appointment will only be good through the end of the year. That means a special election will be held in November to fill the remainder of the term.