Special city election to be held in April

City officials will hold a special election at a cost to taxpayers of about $25,000-$30,000 following a failed attempt by two council members to change city ordinance regarding vacant council seats.

During Monday's meeting, a reading failed by a 2-2 vote to change city ordinance that would allow a stand-in council member to hold the seat until the next election. The reading required a majority to pass.

The 2-2 vote allows the current ordinance to stand which requires a special election within 90 days of the council member's absence. In the case of David Pugh's resignation last month, a special election will be required before Saturday, April 10.

The winner of that election will then serve Pugh's term, which expires in 2012.
Until then, former council member Frankie Burnett - one of five who was chosen by council members Monday - will fill the seat.

Council members chose Burnett from among four other candidates who included Shannon Dempsey, Brent Gaustad, Herman Scriven and Jason Sharp. Burnett, Dempsey and Gaustad were the top three choices for council members, who then agreed on Burnett.