There’s an opening on the Durham City Council. How to apply.
Durham has an open seat on the City Council and is looking for a resident who will serve out the remaining two years in the term.
When Leonardo Williams became mayor on Monday, he resigned from his City Council seat with two years remaining in his term.
That set off a 60-day timer for the newly elected council to appoint his replacement. If they can’t reach an agreement, a special election is triggered.
Think you have what it takes? The city is accepting applications now. Visit durhamnc.gov to access the application or stop by City Hall during business hours.
Residents must be 21 and reside within Ward 3, which covers West Durham.
The expected timeline
- Dec. 21: Applications are due. The clerk must verify each candidate is registered to vote and current on their taxes.
- Jan. 3: A lengthier questionnaire, which will be finalized later this month, is due.
- Jan. 4: The council will narrow the field by selecting a small group of finalists during its work session.
- Jan. 8: Finalists will be interviewed in a public meeting.
- Jan. 10: The council will hold a second meeting to listen to residents’ thoughts on the finalists.
- Jan. 16: The council will vote.
- Feb. 2: If there is a stalemate, a special election is triggered.
Appointment process reveals future Durham leaders
Appointments have become a crucial part of the leadership pipeline in the Bull City in recent years:
- 2022: Monique Holsey-Hyman was appointed to Charlie Reece’s seat when he moved. She lost an election bid this year. Also a finalist? Nate Baker, who was elected a year later.
- 2020: Pierce Freelon was appointed to Vernetta Alston’s seat when she joined the state House of Representatives. Freelon didn’t run for reelection. Also a finalist? Leonardo Williams, who was elected a year later.
- 2018: Javiera Caballero was appointed to Steve Schewel’s seat when he was elected mayor. She has won two elections since. Also a finalist? Carl Rist, who was elected five years later.
This story was originally published December 8, 2023 at 4:00 PM.
