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Astoria council opts to fill Ward 4 vacancy by appointment, schedules special meeting Oct. 22
Summary
Facing an upcoming Ward 4 vacancy effective Nov. 1, the Astoria City Council voted to fill the seat by appointment within the charter's 60-day window and scheduled a special meeting for Oct. 22 to set application and selection procedures; residents urged a special election during public comment.
The Astoria City Council voted on Oct. 20 to fill the Ward 4 council vacancy by appointment and to hold a special meeting to establish a transparent timeline and application process.
City Manager Spence explained two options under the city charter’s vacancy provisions: (1) appointment by a majority of council within 60 days of the vacancy, or (2) declaration by council that the vacancy will be filled at the next available regular or special election per Clatsop County’s calendar. Spence said a special election estimate from the county ranged roughly $6,000–$8,000 depending on whether it is the sole ballot item.
Public comment reflected mixed views. Marilyn Dito (Ward 4) and others urged an election so Ward 4 voters decide their representative. Lisa Morley raised a legal question about whether an appointment lasts only until the next general election; Spence and the city attorney referenced the charter and explained that, per the charter, the term for an appointed office runs until the expiration of the predecessor’s term, meaning the appointee would serve the remainder of the term unless otherwise constrained by statute.
Councilors discussed time without representation, cost and precedent. Councilors Adams, Davis and Lum said they preferred appointment to reduce the period Ward 4 would be unrepresented; several councilors emphasized the need for a clear, public appointment process. Councilor Adams moved to fill the vacancy by appointment and hold a special meeting to establish timeline and process; Councilor Lum seconded. The motion passed. The council scheduled a special meeting for Oct. 22 at 6:00 p.m. to adopt procedures and hear public input on the appointment process.
Next steps: staff and the city attorney will support the special meeting, prepare application guidance that incorporates statutory residency and voter-registration requirements, and return with a recommended timeline and selection criteria for council approval.
