With the election of Councilor Lehman as Mayor, a special election will ultimately be required for the remaining term of his seat. The earliest that could occur based upon the necessary timeline, and the State approved dates is April 11, 2023.

In the interim, the City Council has the ability to appoint someone to fill the vacancy until the time of the special election.  

There are no rules or special process that the City Council must follow when making this appointment, other than you can’t appoint anyone until the vacancy occurs. If the Council cannot come to an agreement, the Mayor under MN Stats. 412 Subd. 2a would make the appointment.

As stated, the earliest a special election can occur is April 11. The next available state-mandated date is May 9.