The La Conner Town Council started the process for filling the vacancy left by Jacques Brunisholz’s resignation at its Sept. 14 meeting, but the eight week schedule they agreed to means whomever they choose will be approved Nov. 9 at the earliest. That is after the Nov. 2 election and only two council meetings before the 2022 budget will be approved Dec. 14.

While the only qualifications for council are being a town resident and a registered voter, council was presented by Town Administrator Scott Thomas with a 14 page packet. The town is required by law to advertise the position for two weeks...