How a Special Election for Ankeny City Council Can Still Happen

Following the announcement that the Ankeny City Council plans to fill a vacant seat by appointment, .

"At no point is it okay for the city council to appoint people to elected seats. Spend the $12,000. After all if giving the City Manager nearly half a million dollars they can afford fair and legal elections." - Nick Berry

The Ankeny City Council voted unanimously during its regular meeting Monday night to appoint a replacement to fill . The council is recommending the spot be filled by Denny Rafdal, who served 13 years on the city's Plan and Zoning Commission.

According to a press release issued by the , the council made the decision to avoid the costs associated with holding a special election.

Do you support the appointment or would you prefer a special election? Tell us in the comments.

But many of our commenters still want to see a special election.

"What is up with bringing back old blood? Ankeny needs new people in office. I want to know how we the people can demand a special election. No more of this garbage." - Jim Zupan

According to information found on the city of Ankeny's website, residents can still petition the council for a special election should the council decide to appoint someone to fill the vacated seat.

To hold a special election, petitions must be filed with the within 14 days after the appointment is made. The council is set to consider Rafdal's appointment at its May 21 meeting.

Petitions must contain at least 1,000 signatures or 15 percent of the number of people who voted in Ankeny's last election, whichever is fewer. According to the city's website, 2,098 people voted in the last election. This means 315 residents' signatures are needed to hold a special election.

Petition forms can be found attached to this article or at the city clerk's office.

According to the city's website, if a special election is needed, it likely will be held Aug. 14. If a primary is necessary, it must be held on the Tuesday 28 days prior to the special election date, which is July 17.

To see complete details outlining the special election process, visit the city's website.