City calling for mayoral candidates

RITZVILLE – Following Mayor Gary Cook's letter of resignation submitted to the city January 27 the city is again calling for anyone interested in being mayor to send in a letter of interest by Feb. 25.

The qualifications to run for mayor are to be a register voter and a resident of the city for at least one year.

Mayor Cook's resignation becomes effective March 31.

“I would like the council to think about moving forward, and I put it in your capable hands,” Cook told council members at their Feb. 2 meeting.

Council members Dennis Chamberlain and Debby Chapman have both submitted letters of interest.

City clerk-treasurer Julie Flyckt said since the mayor resigned mid-term, the city council will appoint a temporary mayor from approximately April through November 2021, when a an election will be certified.

“The next city election will be determined in 2021, where the elected mayor will serve a two-year term from November 2021 through December 2023,” Flyckt said.

She said selection of the mayor would be based on review by the city council, and asked letters of interest to include name, contact information, stated interest in the position and relevant experience and/or background information.

The letters are due at city hall by 5 p.m. Feb. 25.