Oakdale City Council members discussed their options regarding filling the mayor’s position once it becomes vacant when current Mayor J.R. McCarty vacates the seat on Dec. 31.

Recently, McCarty announced his resignation midway through his term after moving outside of the city limits.

City Manager Bryan Whitemyer detailed the following options available to council:

A special election at a cost to the city of $96,000.

Council appointing a currently seated member to serve as mayor for the remainder of the two-year term.

Requesting applicants from the community at a cost of $2,000 to cover mailing and advertising materials.

McCarty said, “I believe that each and every one of these council members are more than capable of taking the mayor seat. Each one of them bring something special to our council. It's been a privilege working with each and every one of you. I just want to say thank you to each and every one of you.”

No action was taken. Discussions will resume at the Dec. 21 council meeting when McCarty will name his Mayor Pro Tem choice, who will take over the mayoral duties until Jan. 11.

A community member expressed concerns during public comment regarding councilmember Rich Murdoch potentially being appointed as the next mayor when he is currently involved in litigation against the city.

For more information on how to virtually attend the next city council meeting, go to https://www.oakdalegov.com/city-council.