Murray City has amended its municipal code to align with state law regarding how an interim City Council member is appointed when a midterm vacancy occurs, according to an ordinance published August 21.
The new ordinance, designated as Ordinance No. 26-27, amends subsection 2.04.070(A) of the Murray City Municipal Code. Under the updated rules, if a Council member dies, resigns, terminates their legal domicile within the city or their district, or is judicially removed, the City Council must declare a vacancy.
Once a vacancy is declared, the City Council must appoint a qualified resident from the appropriate Council district to fill the unexpired term within 30 days. This appointment occurs if a resignation letter is received at least 14 calendar days before the election filing deadline in an odd-numbered year, and if at least two years remain on the term after the first Monday of January following the next municipal election.
The appointee will hold the same rights and powers as an elected Council member until a successor is elected, qualified, and sworn into office. The ordinance was passed and adopted by the Murray City Municipal Council on August 18, 2026, and was approved by Mayor Brett A. Hales.
The ordinance took effect upon its first publication on August 21, 2026.
