Butler City Council approved a familiar face to take the place of former Councilman Corey Roche, who resigned in August.

Fred Reese, a former council member, was appointed to the position after Mayor Ben Smith nominated him at Thursday's meeting. The motion was seconded by councilman Michael Walters.

The vote was unanimous with the exception of Councilman Kenny Bonus, who was absent.

“It had to be unanimous in order to pass,” said Councilman Jeff Smith.

Smith said the appointment was not initially on the agenda for Thursday's meeting, but a deadline was looming.

“Council had 30 days to make the selection, and really, we were coming up on that limit,” Smith said.

Reese is an owner of Monroe Hotel and serves on the redevelopment authority. He did not attend Thursday's meeting.

“Fred has experience as a councilperson,” Smith said. “He retired, so it wasn't a case of him being voted out of office.”

Reese will serve in the position until the end of the year. He will be replaced by the winner of the November election. Walters' chair will also be up for election.