In a recent city council meeting, Avondale's city clerk, Marcella, outlined the process for filling the mayoral vacancy following the resignation of Mayor Ken Weiss, effective October 13. Weiss is departing to take on a new role with NASCAR, leaving the council with a deadline to appoint a new mayor by November 14, in accordance with the city charter, which mandates that vacancies must be filled within 31 days.

Marcella provided a historical context for previous vacancy processes in Avondale, detailing three notable instances from 2014, 2017, and 2021. In 2014, following the resignation of Mayor Marie Lopez Rogers, the council appointed Ken Weiss after a series of interviews. The 2017 vacancy arose from the passing of Council Member Sandy Nelson, which led to a swift recruitment process and the appointment of Council Member Condie. Most recently, in 2021, the resignation of Council Member Dennis allowed for a two-month window to fill her position, culminating in the appointment of Council Member Gloria Solorio.

For the current mayoral vacancy, the council has several options: they can appoint a current council member, initiate a recruitment process similar to past vacancies, or devise a new approach. The proposed timeline includes opening a notice of interest period on October 15, followed by applicant rankings and interviews leading up to the appointment.

The meeting also allowed for public input, with a member of the community expressing interest in discussing the vacancy process before the council's deliberation. The council is now tasked with deciding how to proceed in filling the critical leadership role in the city.