LYNCHBURG — The Metro Council will appoint a new first district council member to replace Darrell Richards during their August meeting. During the heated budget debate during the June meeting, first district council member Richards resigned — leaving the seat open.

In order to qualified, candidates must live in the first district and be nominated by an existing Metro Council member. Candidate are encouraged to attend the August meeting for the vote, but in the case that the candidate can not be present, he or she should send a letter to the Council stating they are willing to serve.

The existing 14 members of the Council, will vote until a single candidate receives a majority. Once elected, the new first district council member will be sworn during the August meeting and will be allowed to immediately vote on county business.

The newly appointed council member will serve until the next general election.

That meeting will take place on the third Monday of the month or August 18 at 6:30 p.m. If you have questions, contact Metro Mayor Sloan Stewart at 931-759-7076. •

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