In a surprising turn of events, District 6 City Councilor Dan Stoddard has announced his resignation, citing family and health-related matters. Stoddard’s departure leaves a vacant seat on the council, and the city is now tasked with finding a qualified successor.
The Resignation
On April 27, Councilor Stoddard made the difficult decision to step down from his position. His last day in office is set for May 26. As he focuses on personal matters, the city council must swiftly address the vacancy.
Filling the Void
The process to fill the District 6 City Council seat is underway. Mayor Gregg Hull is inviting interested individuals to submit their applications. Here are the eligibility criteria for potential appointees:
- Residence: Applicants must reside within City Council District 6 in Rio Rancho.
- Age: Candidates must be over 18 years old.
- Voter Registration: Only registered voters of Rio Rancho are eligible.
- No Felony Convictions: Individuals with felony convictions are not eligible.
Mayoral Appointment
According to the City’s Charter, the mayor has 60 days from the date of the vacancy to appoint a qualified successor. This appointment is subject to confirmation by the governing body. If the initial appointment is not accepted, the mayor has an additional 45 days to propose another candidate for confirmation.
Responsibilities and Benefits
The appointed individual will serve until the next regular municipal election in March 2024. During their tenure, they will receive an annual salary of $19,772.20. Additionally, they, along with eligible family members, will have access to medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage similar to other city employees.
Looking Ahead
As the city council reviews applications and conducts interviews, the community eagerly awaits the announcement of the new District 6 representative. Their decisions will shape local policies and impact the lives of Rio Rancho residents.
