The Madras City Council has filled a pair of long-vacant seats, appointing Christopher Heden and Tony Chard on Tuesday, September 1, to serve through the end of the year. The two positions opened after councilors Mike Seibold and Lamar Yoder both resigned earlier in 2026.

Eight residents applied for the two openings, and the council conducted public interviews at a special meeting before making its selections. The appointments run through January, when newly elected councilors — chosen in the November election — will take office.

Tony Chard: Motivated by Community Frustration

Chard, a Jefferson County native, told council members he entered the race at the urging of neighbors frustrated with how the city handled the Stone Oak rezoning — a 2025 decision involving a property on Oak Street that drew significant community opposition.

"I wasn't feeling that responsiveness and I think our community wants and needs that," Chard said, pointing to the words inscribed on the Council dais: "A vibrant, responsive community where you can thrive and grow."

Chard cited the string of recent departures — two resigning councilors and multiple department directors over recent years — as evidence of deeper instability that residents have noticed.

"People inherently feel that the city is broken," he said. "The success is building a cohesive unit — even while disagreeing on issues and continuing to listen to each other through that."

Chard holds a degree in government law, has been attending council meetings regularly, and currently serves on budget committees for both the city and its urban renewal commission. He is also running for a full council term in the November election.

Christopher Heden

Heden was the second appointment confirmed at the September 1 meeting. Both he and Chard will serve in a temporary capacity until the November election settles who fills the seats on a permanent basis.

A Council Working to Stabilize

The appointments arrive at a moment when Madras is navigating leadership turnover alongside ongoing decisions about development, infrastructure, and community identity. Interim City Administrator David Clyne has been managing day-to-day city operations in the absence of a permanent administrator.

Residents who want a voice in the long-term shape of the council should watch the November ballot — those permanent seats will be decided then.