Davie council accepts resignation of Councilmember Carol Hatton; clerk opens process to fill District 2 seat

Mayor read Councilmember Carol Hatton’s resignation letter at the Feb. 4 meeting; the resignation was effective Feb. 1, 2026. Councilmembers paid tribute to Hatton’s more than 15 years of service to the town.

Town Clerk Evelyn Oregon explained the statutory and charter procedures for filling the vacancy. Under Section 7 of the town charter, the council may elect a successor who meets office qualifications by majority vote (three affirmative votes). If the council does not elect a successor within three ensuing meetings following the resignation, the office must be filled by special election for the remainder of the term; clerk and staff noted the municipal election calendar means the special election would occur Nov. 3, 2026 if required.

The clerk opened the qualifying period beginning Feb. 4; candidates must submit required documents to the clerk’s office and provide proof of residency in District 2 for at least one year prior to qualifying. Submissions will be accepted through Feb. 11 at 5:30 p.m., and the clerk will present candidate information at the Feb. 18 meeting for council review. If a successor is selected by the council, the swearing‑in would be scheduled for the March 4 meeting. The clerk provided a phone number for inquiries and said staff will assist applicants through the process.