Mayor Gonzalez to Appoint Replacement for Deceased Alderman

Now, Mayor David Gonzalez has about two months from White's death to appoint a replacement, according to City Corporation Counsel T.J. Somer.

"There became a 'vacancy' in Ald. White's office upon his death on Dec. 19," Somer said. "The statutes state that an appointment shall be made by the mayor to fill the vacancy within 60 days."  

That means we should know Mayor Gonzalez's recommendation for First Ward Alderman by Feb. 17. After that, the Chicago Heights City Council has 30 days to approve or reject it. 

But instead of serving out White's full four-year term, the appointed replacement will serve up until the next municipal election on April 9, 2013. 

"An election will be held for that office to fill the two years that will be remaining in the term at that point," Somer added.

Gonzalez has yet to announce his recommendation to replace White.