Here’s what we know for sure: When the 2015 Bridgeport City Election takes place, there will be a new City Recorder and most likely at least one new City Council member.

 

According to City Clerk Andrea Kerr, the next municipal election – set for June 9, 2015, - will include two seats on Council and the position of City Recorder. On Tuesday, Melissa Matheny was appointed to the remaining nine months of that position that was formerly held by Bob Greer. The position became open when Greer was appointed mayor.

 

Following the meeting, Matheny said she plans on stepping down from elected office when the nine-month term is over. Previously, she had said she would not be running for another term on Council. Although she can change her mind, as it stands now the Bridgeport City Recorder position is up for grabs.

 

Although he could not be reached to confirm if he would be interested in running on the next ballot, Dr. Harry “Hank” Murray – who was appointed to Matheny’s Council seat – will be finishing out that nine-month term. Murray has the option to run if he would desire, but he stepped down previously after serving multiple terms on the city’s governing body.

 

That means only one incumbent will be tested on the June slate. Council member Darrell Bowen sits in the other seat that will be up during the election.

 

“I think this election will be a good one. I’m curious to see who is going to put their names in the hat for the open Recorder position and the two City Council positions,” said Kerr, who added that Tuesday's appointments were done in accordance to rules spelled out in the city's charter. “Hopefully, the city will attract a good pool of candidates looking to serve for the upcoming election. It’s creeping up much faster than some may realize. It’s right around the corner.”

 

While the election is roughly nine months away, the time to register for office isn’t. Kerr said that applications for the seats can be submitted starting in January.

 

Greer will serve the remaining two years and nine months on the mayor’s term. The position became open when Mario Blount recently resigned prior to pleading guilty to three federal felony drug counts.

 

Click HERE for a story on the appointments to Council. Click HERE for a story on Blount’s court appearance.

 

Editor's Note: City Clerk Andrea Kerr looks over election guidelines in the Bridgeport City Charter.