Burnsville debates how to fill vacancy

During his 18 years on the Burnsville City Council, Charlie Crichton was probably best known for being a fiscal hawk, eyeing every dollar that the city wanted to spend.

Crichton died last month at the age of 83, less than 90 days into his record sixth term.

As a result, the city could end up spending $60,000 or more to fill the vacancy, depending on what the City Council decides to do Tuesday.

"This is a highly unusual situation," Council Member Mary Sherry said.

The council must decide whether to hold a special election as soon as possible or simply appoint someone to serve until next year's elections.

If the council holds a special election, the cost could be between $30,000 and $35,000, according to city officials.

That cost would double if a primary has to be held, which would be required if more than two people were to run for the office, according to city officials.

The council late last month declared the seat vacant but delayed taking action because one of the remaining four members was not present.

If the four council members deadlock on a choice, then Mayor Elizabeth Kautz would make the appointment, according to city officials.

Council Member Dan Kealey said he is strongly opposed to that idea, because having the mayor appoint someone would "politicize" the process.

"I don't see democracy being served by the appointment process," Kealey said. "I think it is worth a special election."

Council Member Dan Gustafson also has indicated he wants to hold a special election as soon as possible.

Both Gustafson and Kealey believe the amount of time left on Crichton's term argues for a special election. Sherry said she has not decided which way she will vote, but that the length of time left on Crichton's term is something to take into account.

"I've heard from a lot of people in Burnsville ... [who] make that case," Sherry said. "That is a very long time. I think we'll have a healthy discussion."