Just weeks after electing a new member, the Brighton City Council had another member, David Pratt, step down on April 15. In the two meetings since then, the Council has been unable to agree on whether Pratt’s seat will be filled by appointment or another special election.

At their latest meeting on Monday, Scott Hughes, who won the March 26 election, was in favor of holding another. During discussion, Hughes stated that the citizens should make the decision. “I think you should give [the citizens] a chance to vote. That’s what we’re here for right?”

One of the primary arguments against an election is the cost. While finances have been a contentious topic of discussion at previous council meetings, the most recent election cost Brighton $1,100. Council member Dick Green believed that another would be unwise from a fiscal standpoint. “We’re running out of money. We had an $1,100 election. To spend another $1,000 ain’t good for the city.”

Separate motions were made for appointing a replacement and holding a special election. With only four active members on the Council, both were met with a 2-2 tie. Despite this apparent stalemate, Brighton Mayor Melvin Rich said that filling the vacancy will be included on the agenda for their next meeting on May 20. If the Brighton Council cannot come to an agreement within 60 days of the seat becoming open, the City will be required by law to hold an election.