In what is almost certainly a rare scenario, she was sworn into office by the man whose term on the council she was elected to complete.

Humboldt County Magistrate Neven Conrad was a member of the council from 2016 until he resigned on Oct. 11, 2022. His appointment to the magistrate’s position prompted his resignation because Iowa’s rules of judicial conduct prohibit judges and magistrates from holding political offices.

Very early in Monday’s council meeting, Conrad led Secor in reciting the oath of office.

She then took her place at the council table, replacing former Councilman Andy Fritz, who was appointed on Oct. 24, 2022, to complete Conrad’s term. However, a citizens’ petition forced a special election. Fritz did not run in that election.

- Messenger photo by Bill Shea
Humboldt County Magistrate Neven Conrad, a former Fort Dodge city councilman, swears in Councilwoman Megan Secor Monday night during the council meeting.

City Manager David Fierke presented a plaque to Fritz, thanking him for his service.

“Thank you Andy,” Fierke said. “You didn’t ask for this. You were asked to serve because of your knowledge and abilities.”

Secor will serve on the council through the end of this year.

The at-large seat she now holds will be on the November ballot as part of the regular election cycle. The winner of that election will serve a full four year term.

- Messenger photo by Bill Shea Fort Dodge Councilwoman Megan Secor takes her place at the council table in the Municipal Building Monday evening. Mayor Matt Bemrich, left, prepares to move forward with the rest of the evening's agenda following Secor's swearing in.