The citizens of Jefferson will get to decide on who should fill a vacancy on city council.

Matt Gordon was elected as mayor but he had two years left on his four year council term. The Council recently decided to call for a special election to fill the vacancy, rather than by appointment. The Council voted unanimously to have a special election because more than one person showed interest and there were two years left on the term.

Several citizens attended the most recent city council meeting and spoke on behalf of Sean Sebourne to be appointed. Sebourne lost in the previous city council election to two incumbents, Dave Sloan and Matt Wetrich. It was also noted at the meeting the other person that showed interest in the seat was Pat Zmolek.  

City Administrator Mike Palmer shares his thoughts about the Council’s decision for a special election.

“Well that was a big discussion item and I agree it is (the right decision). With that much time to go and there was several people interested in the open seat for the two year term. So they came down to is that maybe some other people are interested now that it’s going to be an election.”

It will cost about $3,500 to hold the special election. Jefferson residents interested in running must get at least 25 signatures to be on the ballot. Individuals have until February 7th to submit a nomination form to the Greene County Auditor’s office. The special election will then be held March 3rd.