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Board sets timeline for Ward 3 interim appointment and special election; application to be posted Jan. 10, interviews Jan. 29
Summary
Following a vacancy in Ward 3, the board agreed on a compressed timeline to solicit applicants, interview finalists and select an interim appointee before a special election; staff will post application materials and verify residency with the elections office.
The board discussed the process and schedule Jan. 8 to fill the Ward 3 seat left vacant in September. Legal counsel explained statutory timing: because the vacancy occurred more than 90 days before the next general election, the default date to fill the remainder of the seat is the November 2025 general election, although the board may petition the circuit court for a standalone special election earlier (at additional cost and subject to court approval).
To keep the appointment timeline within statutory limits for a board appointment (which must be completed within 45 days of the vacancy), the board agreed to a compressed schedule: the administration will post an application and announcement on Friday, Jan. 10; the application deadline was set for Jan. 17 (to allow verification of residency with the registrar); the board will review application materials at the Jan. 22 business meeting and conduct public interviews and a public meeting on Jan. 29 at 4 p.m.; the board plans to vote on an interim appointment during the Feb. 5 meeting (work session) or by special meeting the week following if needed.
The board discussed logistics including use of the registrar/Office of Elections to verify ward residency, the need to publicize the opportunity promptly (beyond routine meeting notices) and the option to hold interviews in person at the school or at the board chambers.
Why it matters: An interim appointment fills representation for Ward 3 until voters choose a replacement in the special or general election; following statutory timelines prevents the circuit court from being required to make the appointment and ensures public transparency.
Ending: Staff will circulate a draft application and interview questions to board members for review; the board asked for a quick turnaround to finalize materials by Friday and to post the application that day.
