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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, Apri114, 2008 Page 24 Councilmember Ihlan asked that the motion be voted up or down. Mayor Klausing declared the motion failed for lack of a second. Councilmember Roe expressed concern that the process was moving down a path he had feared, becoming controversial from the outset. Councilmember Roe pro- vided his interpretation of Councilmember Kough's letter and suggestions based on Tom's many years as a Councilmember and Mayor, and awareness that one Councilmember's suggestion may not be enacted. Councilmember Roe noted Tom's history of advocating for an open and public appointment process for advi- sory commissions, and noted the need to review historical records of the City from 2004 and Tom's comments on that appointment process. Councilmember Roe opined that it seemed appropriate to ask members of the community to ex- press their interest in serving out the balance of Councilmember Kough's term, and allow elected representatives of the City to ask questions of that person, fol- lowed by a decision on that appointment. Councilmember Roe expressed his per- sonal preference for a Special Election; however, noted the cost realities and tim- ing issues so close to the Primary and General Elections and filing deadlines, with the application process the next best approach. Councilmember Pust opined her personal preference for a special election; and asked that it not be taken off the table yet. Mayor Klausing opined that, given costs and timing, a special election was not up for discussion from his personal perspective, but expressed his willingness to hear out other opinions. Councilmember Pust opined that it may be worth a special election to show re- spect not only for Councilmember Kough, but for the Council as a whole and the community, if the body couldn't come together during this very difficult time. Discussion ensued regarding the term of appointment. Klausing moved, Roe seconded, directing staff to advertise Council vacancy amended with an application deadline of May 7, 2008; interviews to be scheduled on May 12, 2008; and appointment on May 19, 2008. Mayor Klausing spoke in support of the motion, opining that it was the responsi- bility of the Council to proceed in the most public and transparent way and to be as civil as possible throughout that process. Councilmember Ihlan spoke against the motion; opining that appointment should not be political or someone unaccountable as having been elected or seeking elec- tion, without testing by the voters.