Statement regarding Alderman and Mayor Resignations
For Immediate Release
Statement from the Office of the City Manager of Vergennes, Vermont
Re: Alderman and Mayor Resignations
July 28, 2020
On July 16, the City Council voted to accept Mayor Jeff Fritz’s resignation. However, Jeff Fritz exited the meeting without submitting his resignation; thus, remaining Mayor.
On July 19, Alderman Bill Benton resigned from his post.
On July 27, within 45 minutes of each other, Alderman Mark Koenig, Alderman Tara Brooks, and Mayor Jeff Fritz all resigned. Because all three abruptly resigned, only three board members remain, and thus, a quorum cannot be formed, and Alderman appointments cannot be made.
Deputy Mayor Donnelly is now Mayor until the next annual meeting. Alderman David Austin and Alderman Lowell Bertrand remain in their posts.
Pursuant to 24 VSA 961 & 24 VSA 963, in lieu of a quorum, a Special Election will be scheduled, and until such time, board members can only act on authorizing warrants for city financial obligations.