Request councilman Back's resignation or suspension

Recent signers:
Jessica Denton and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In light of all the recent negative media attention the village of New Lebanon has received, I believe it is in the best interest of the village and its citizens that Councilman Back step down from his position. As a concerned resident and advocate for the integrity of our community, I am compelled to appeal to the village council and Mayor Nickerson to take immediate action.

Councilman Back is currently facing serious allegations of child abuse and was allegedly involved in an incident that led to a soft lockdown at Dixie Elementary School on October 23rd, 2025. These allegations have understandably caused a great deal of unrest and concern among the residents of New Lebanon.

Having individuals in positions of power who are under such grave scrutiny can undermine public trust and distract from the vital work that needs to be done to improve our village. It is essential for the leadership of New Lebanon to demonstrate accountability and transparency to restore confidence among the citizens.

Councilman Back should be given the opportunity to address his legal obligations and personal matters without the added responsibilities of his council duties. Resigning or being placed on suspension would allow him to focus on these pressing issues while also removing a potential source of divisiveness from our community leadership.

By signing this petition, you are urging Mayor Nickerson and the village council to either request Councilman Back's resignation or place him on suspension while the investigation is underway. Your support is crucial in ensuring that our village continues to be a place of integrity and safety for all residents. Let us unite for the betterment of New Lebanon and show that we will not compromise on our values or our community's well-being. Please help us take this important step by signing the petition today.

please see today’s article published by Dayton Daily News below:

https://www.daytondailynews.com/local/new-lebanon-councilman-subject-of-montgomery-county-sheriffs-office-investigation/POR3LYQFF5CHZJ7WZA4QO3HDEE/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwN7N1JleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeT866x91rPa80nat2-x-s7lRZaDiH_5rOozHLuB5PeeJXmHTCgN55MG0hrxI_aem_7BoF6TxckgPaugKr_bWsEw

190

Recent signers:
Jessica Denton and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In light of all the recent negative media attention the village of New Lebanon has received, I believe it is in the best interest of the village and its citizens that Councilman Back step down from his position. As a concerned resident and advocate for the integrity of our community, I am compelled to appeal to the village council and Mayor Nickerson to take immediate action.

Councilman Back is currently facing serious allegations of child abuse and was allegedly involved in an incident that led to a soft lockdown at Dixie Elementary School on October 23rd, 2025. These allegations have understandably caused a great deal of unrest and concern among the residents of New Lebanon.

Having individuals in positions of power who are under such grave scrutiny can undermine public trust and distract from the vital work that needs to be done to improve our village. It is essential for the leadership of New Lebanon to demonstrate accountability and transparency to restore confidence among the citizens.

Councilman Back should be given the opportunity to address his legal obligations and personal matters without the added responsibilities of his council duties. Resigning or being placed on suspension would allow him to focus on these pressing issues while also removing a potential source of divisiveness from our community leadership.

By signing this petition, you are urging Mayor Nickerson and the village council to either request Councilman Back's resignation or place him on suspension while the investigation is underway. Your support is crucial in ensuring that our village continues to be a place of integrity and safety for all residents. Let us unite for the betterment of New Lebanon and show that we will not compromise on our values or our community's well-being. Please help us take this important step by signing the petition today.

please see today’s article published by Dayton Daily News below:

https://www.daytondailynews.com/local/new-lebanon-councilman-subject-of-montgomery-county-sheriffs-office-investigation/POR3LYQFF5CHZJ7WZA4QO3HDEE/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwN7N1JleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeT866x91rPa80nat2-x-s7lRZaDiH_5rOozHLuB5PeeJXmHTCgN55MG0hrxI_aem_7BoF6TxckgPaugKr_bWsEw

The Decision Makers

New Lebanon Village Council
3 Members
1 Responded
Melissa Sexton
New Lebanon Village Council
Thank you for reaching out and for sharing the petition information. At this time, I’m not able to go into detail or engage in any debate regarding this matter. It is currently under investigation, and Council is fully aware of the situation. We are waiting for the investigative process to be completed before taking any further action or making additional statements. Thank you for your understanding.
Timothy Back
New Lebanon Village Council
Gale Joy
New Lebanon Village Council
Former New Lebanon Village Council
2 Members
1 Responded
Christopher Sands
Former New Lebanon Village Council
I was just made aware of the petition and I have no comment because there is still an open investigation. Christopher Sands
Nicole Adkins
Former New Lebanon Village Council
David Nickerson
New Lebanon Village Mayor
Responded
This issue is currently under investigation and as mayor I will not be a judge, jury, or executioner on any open investigation. Thank you. Mayor Dave Nickerson.
Charles Cooper
Charles Cooper
New Lebanon Village Council
Responded
Hello. In answer to your inquiry; given the fact that this incident is under investigation by the proper authorities and the Council is limited in what action they can take at this time I reserve judgement and any potential action until all the proper investigations and/or legal action is complete. Thank you, Charles Cooper

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Petition created on November 7, 2025