Marion City Council Member Resigns: Should Voters Call for Special Election?

A Marion City Council member is resigning leaving a vacancy on the council.

Lou Stark has resigned his position on the City Council effective June 1 to accept a position leading the Department of Student Affairs at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. 

The City Council intends to fill this vacancy by appointment, but Marion voters could force a special election by a petition.

Here's more information about applying:

The appointment shall be in place until the November election. To be eligible for consideration, candidates must be a registered voter of the City of Marion and a resident of the 4th Ward. Marion voters have the right to file a Petition requiring that this vacancy be filled by a special election in the manner set forth in Section 372.13 of the Code of Iowa.

To determine City Council districts, residents can enter their address at www.linncountyelections.org. Those eligible and interested in filling the vacancy must submit a resume and write a letter of application expressing ones desire to be considered for appointment. Credentials should be addressed to the City Council in care of the City Clerk at City Hall, 1225 6th Avenue, Marion, Iowa 52302.

Applications must be received in the office of the City Clerk by noon 12:00 p.m. on June 13, 2013. Action concerning the appointment is expected to be taken at the City Council meeting on June 20, 2013.