Keokuk, IA – The Keokuk City Council appears to have missed the deadline for filling its vacant 6th ward seat.
That does not necessarily mean aldermen cannot appoint someone during this afternoon's special meeting.
Iowa law gives cities two options to fill city council vacancies: appoint someone to serve until the next city election or hold a special election.
There is a catch with appointments as they must be made within 40 days after the vacancy occurs.
In Keokuk, former 6th Ward Alderman Gary Stepp's resignation took effect Sunday, March 23.
Starting with Monday, March 24, the 40th day would have been Friday, May 2.
But Sandy Steinbach, director of elections for the Iowa Secretary of State's Office, says there is nothing in state law that spells out what would happen if an appointment is made after the 40th day.
The city council is meeting this afternoon to interview two prospective candidates for the open 6th ward seat.
Keokuk Mayor Dave Gudgel says a formal vote will take place this evening.
*Additional Information*
- Keokuk has been working under the assumption that the appointment must be made within 45 days.
- The 45th day would be Wednesday, May 7.