A decision on how to fill a vacancy and a proposed increase in the city’s utility service tax highlight a special meeting of the Stanton City Council today (Thursday).
The council will meet at 5 p.m. in the City Hall, 7800 Katella Ave.
The vacancy on the council is the result of the resignation of Ed Royce. Sr., citing health reasons, at the last council meeting on Feb .1
Under state law, within 60 days the city must either fill the vacancy by appointment or call a special election.
In recent years, the council has chosen to appoint, rather than bear the costs of an election.
The expense of running the city is also a major factor on the proposal to increase the city’s 5 percent utility service tax to 7.5 percent, along with a cost-of-living adjustment thereafter.
City staff is asking the council to declare a “fiscal emergency” and hold a special election “at the earliest opportunity.” By state law, a city cannot raise taxes without the approval of voters.
The election would be held on June 5 and would apply to all utility services within the City of Stanton.
