Municipal Office Vacancy Modifications

Clarified the definition of a 'vacancy' due to resignation to specify exactly when the vacancy occurs (upon submission of an irrevocable letter or the future date specified in it).

Added a requirement that municipal legislative bodies must pass a resolution or ordinance establishing a fair and transparent method (such as lot or coin toss) for breaking ties when multiple candidates receive the same number of votes.

Mandated that votes to fill vacancies be immediately disclosed to the public, including how each individual member voted, to increase transparency.

Introduced new requirements for candidates to submit conflict of interest disclosure statements, with specific exemptions for those already holding certain offices or who have recently filed similar statements.

Added provisions allowing for interim appointments followed by an election to fill a two-year term if the vacancy occurs sufficiently early before the next election cycle.

Modified rules regarding who may vote on appointments, clarifying that a member whose resignation created the vacancy may interview candidates but cannot vote on their own appointment, and restricting mayors from participating in tie-breaking votes.