Report Prepared by: Craig J. Cornwell, City Attorney
Title
SUBJECT: Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced California Declaring the District Two City Council Seat Vacant
REPORT IN BRIEF
In the event of a City Council seat vacancy, declaring the seat vacant is the starting point to filling the vacancy by either appointment by City Council within thirty (30) days or by holding an election.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion adopting Resolution 2025-65, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, Declaring the District Two City Council Seat Vacant.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve the attached resolution declaring District Two City Council seat vacant.
2. Provide direction on specific revisions to the Resolution; or,
3. Request additional information.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 403(C).
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
N/A.
DISCUSSION
On October 7, 2025, Councilmember Ronnie DeAnda submitted a letter of resignation to the City Clerk, indicating that his resignation from the District Two seat will be effective October 31, 2025. Councilmember DeAnda was elected to the Merced City Council on December 5, 2022, and has served with distinction and dedication to the residents of District Two and the entire community.
The attached resolution formally accepts Councilmember DeAnda's resignation and declares the District Two City Council seat vacant as of November 3, 2025.
Section 403(C) of the City of Merced Charter governs vacancies in elective offices. Under this provision, when a vacancy arises "from whatever cause," the City Council must either (1) appoint a qualified elector of the City to fill the vacancy within thirty (30) days after the office is declared vacant, or (2) if no appointment is made within that timeframe, call a special election to fill the vacancy. The appointed or elected individual shall serve until the first Tuesday following the next general municipal election and until a succes...
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