Photo courtesy of Jim Forthofer
On May 1, 2025, Vermilion Mayor Jim Forthofer swore in John Gabriel as the interim Council President for the City of Vermilion. Gabriel will serve the remainder of Steve Herron’s unexpired term, which runs through December 31, 2025.
Herron submitted his resignation effective April 30, citing that he could no longer commit the necessary time to the role due to increasing responsibilities in his position with the State of Ohio Parole Board.
Gabriel was the only applicant for the vacancy and was appointed unanimously by City Council at its April 14 meeting. This marks his second time stepping into the Council President role mid-term—he previously filled a vacancy in May 2023 following Monica Stark’s resignation. Gabriel also served a full term as Council President from 2012 to 2013.
A longtime Vermilion resident, Gabriel has remained an active public servant in city government. In March 2025, he was appointed to the Board of Zoning Appeals to complete a term ending December 31, 2026. He has also served on the Stormwater Committee, chaired the Planning Commission, and has led the Council’s Legislative and Health and Safety Committees.
Gabriel’s appointment comes at a time when Vermilion continues to navigate infrastructure needs, public engagement efforts, and financial planning. His steady experience is expected to help maintain continuity and direction as council heads toward the end of its term.
