Sun City West board appoints Alan Schlemmer to fill vacancy through June 30, 2026

Christine Novello, president of the Sun City West Governing Board, convened a special meeting to fill a board vacancy left by the resignation of Dennis Horvath. Novello said the board would follow its bylaws, noting in particular bylaw 4.17 and state open-meeting requirements. “Today’s meeting is a special meeting to address the vacancy, that's currently on the governing board due to the resignation of Dennis Horvath,” Novello said.

Directors discussed several procedures for filling the seat, including appointing the highest vote-getter from recent elections, using a published policy known as LO9, or considering residents who have volunteered since the vacancy was announced. Director Jolene Piuszkowski urged the board to offer the vacancy first to recent election candidates, saying the board “need(s) to at least offer it to them.” Director Kay Williams and other board members voiced similar views that the board should respect the most recent voters’ preferences. Director Rudy Grom urged using Policy LO9 if the board could not reach agreement.

Novello said legal counsel advised that the bylaws follow Arizona law for planned communities and that, under bylaw 4.17, a majority of the remaining directors may fill a vacancy. Novello and other directors noted that a majority of the eight directors present would be five votes.

Two residents who had written to the board — Dennis Hansel and David Bennett — were identified during discussion as having expressed willingness to serve if appointed. The board also acknowledged additional residents and prior candidates who had indicated interest.

After discussion, Director Nick Turner moved to appoint Alan Schlemmer to fill the vacancy effective immediately through June 30, 2026; Director Sandra Forsey seconded the motion. Director Kay Williams requested a written ballot instead of a voice vote. Two resident tellers were asked to observe the count. The board reported the paper vote as five yes, one no and two abstentions; Novello announced the motion carried and the appointment was confirmed.

There was public comment both for and against appointing a previously elected candidate; several residents told the board they preferred the next-highest vote-getter from the most recent election. Others said they prioritized immediate experience and the willingness of candidates to serve. Novello told commenters the board had not made a prior decision in secret and that the vote occurred in open session.

The board concluded the special meeting after announcing the appointment. Novello and members welcomed Schlemmer; he thanked the board and said he looked forward to working with them.

Details of formal action: the motion to appoint Schlemmer was made by Director Nick Turner and seconded by Director Sandra Forsey, passed by a vote of 5 yes, 1 no and 2 abstentions, and the appointment is effective immediately through 06/30/2026.