The City of Dunnellon is looking to fill a city council seat that was vacated in mid-August when a councilwoman resigned after citing the mayor’s “offensive” comments towards citizens who spoke on public record during a meeting.
On August 16, Jan Cubbage resigned from seat 5 of the Dunnellon City Council. Cubbage, whose term began in November 2020, cited Mayor Wally Dunn’s comments during the council’s meeting that evening as the main reason behind her departure.
During the August 16th meeting, Cubbage stated that she would continue working on behalf of Dunnellon residents other ways than “sitting as a councilwoman.” The following day, she submitted an official resignation letter to city staff and thanked them for their dedication to the city.
On Thursday, October 12, the City of Dunnellon issued a public notice that it is seeking “interested, qualified electors to submit an application” to fill the remainder of Cubbage’s unexpired term, which runs until the City Council Election on November 5, 2024.
The city operates with a board consisting of five city council members who are selected to staggered four-year terms. One of the five council members is also elected to serve as mayor.
The council members represent all city residents as they are not elected to districts. According to the city, the council members perform a variety of duties such as passing the city’s fiscal budget, setting the millage rate, passing the ordinances and resolutions, and appointing a chief administrative officer (known as the city clerk).
On an annual basis, the council also elects one of its members to serve as vice mayor.
All candidates for council seat 5 must reside within the incorporated City of Dunnellon to apply for this vacancy. A completed application must be submitted to the city clerk by no later than 12 p.m. on Thursday, November 2, 2023, in order to be considered.
For more information, contact the city clerk via phone (352-465-8500) or email (modom@dunnellon.org).