By Megan Boatwright, Local News 8 Reporter

One of next week's more interesting elections is happening in Rexburg.  Not only will voters go to the polls for the city council election, but Shawn Larsen's recent resignation means a new mayor will finish out his term.  Because Larsen stepped down early, a somewhat unique appointment process is shaping up for the city.

Wednesday morning Local News 8 set out to see what kind of questions Rexburg residents have about the process. We then put the questions to City Clerk, Blair Kay. 

Dale Zitting asked, "Why don't they hold a special election at the same time as the city council elections?"

Blair Kay answered, "It's mid-cycle for the mayor position, which means Idaho statute mandates the opening be filled by a city council appointment."   

Rachel Hurst asked, "Since Chris Mann is acting mayor, how can he run for city council at the same time?"

Kay said, "It is confusing, because Mayor Mann is conducting business as the mayor.  In this case Mann is going to run for re-election as a city council member.  His elected position is as a city council member.  If the council appoints him to finish out the mayor's term, then he will appoint someone to take his seat on the council." 

Since city council elections are next week another common questions is, "What council body will appoint the new mayor?"

Blair said, "It's the standing council that makes the decision.  The new people that will be elected do not become members until they are sworn in."        

Blair said the mayor appointment will likely happen soon after the city council elections.

Rexburg Attorney, Stephen Zollinger, is looking into whether or not those city council members in the running for mayor will be allowed to vote for themselves.  Regardless, the decision will be made by a majority vote.