New Town Councilor to be Chosen

The vacant Town Council seat left by the death in April of Anne Giddings will be filled by a Republican who will be appointed to serve until the November elections more than six months away.

Republican Town Committee Nominating Chairwoman Sandra Mouris said potential appointees are being interviewed and a decision should be made within a month. 

A new councilor should be in place for the capital budget process, Mouris said, which begins this summer. "We're meeting with people to see who is interested." she said. 

By Town Charter, a vacancy in an elective office must be filled within 60 days of the vacancy for the unexpired portion of the term. The seat must be filled with a member of the same political party.

Mouris said the selection process isn't easy because it's difficult for residents to volunteer so much time to a position. "People have a tough time with the economy. There are longer work days. Still, positions need to be filled," she said.

Republican Town Committee Chairman Adam Grippo said in an earlier interview that the committee was taking its time, just as it did when it appointed Steve Carroll in December to replace Tim White who resigned in October to work in Haiti.

Once the committee has selected a nominee, Mouris said the council must vote to approve the appointment. The next regular council meeting will be held on June 14.