Brandon Twp.- The recent death of Trustee Charlene Carlson has left the township board with the difficult task of filling her seat. According to Michigan Compiled Law, the township board must appoint someone to fill the vacant elected office within 45 days of the vacancy. Carlson died Dec. 22.
‘Charlene was truly devoted to the Brandon Community,? said Supervisor Kathy Thurman.
‘She was an exceptionally hardworking trustee. It will be very difficult to replace her.? Although the board is deeply saddened by Carlson’s death, Thurman said, they must be diligent in their efforts to appoint a replacement, in order to avoid a costly special election. The current board, which besides Thurman includes Clerk Jeannie McCreery, Treasurer Terry Beltramo, and Trustees Bob DeWitt, David King and Tom Stowell, invites township residents interested in the position to apply. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, U.S. citizens, and have resided in the township for a minimum of 30 days.
The trustee who is appointed will serve a partial term until Nov. 20 of this year. On Nov. 2, voters will have the opportunity to elect a trustee to fill the remaining two years of the four-year term. Residents interested in applying for the partial term appointment may pick up an application at the clerk’s office, 395 Mill St., or apply online at www.brandontownship.us. Applications should be returned to the clerk’s office by 4 p.m., Jan. 13. Prospective candidates will be interviewed at the regularly scheduled board meeting set for 7:30 p.m., Jan. 19.