Council declares seat vacant after loss of member and opts not to appoint replacement for remainder of term

The Crossville City Council passed a resolution formally declaring a council seat vacant following the earlier loss of Councilman James Mayberry and then voted not to appoint a replacement for the remaining four months of the term.

Speaker 2 introduced the resolution and said the vacancy would allow the seat to be placed on a special election that will coincide with the November ballot. Council discussed charter guidance and interactions with MTAS and state officials about whether to appoint a short-term replacement. Several council members said appointment could give an unelected candidate an advantage for a very short period; Chief Brooks agreed and advised against appointment.

A motion "we do not fill the seat" was made, seconded and approved on a voice vote. The city will coordinate with the election commissioner to place the seat on the November ballot.