Councilman Tom Anderson has also announced his plans to quit. He says he'll resign later this summer, when he moves to California. Two colleagues say Anderson should leave now, so the council could fill both vacancies at once, perhaps by special election. Under the city's charter, the council must fill a vacated seat within 30 days. However, if the council does not appoint a replacement in 30 days, it must call a special election.
Observers say there are two voting blocs on the council.
Mayor Sue Klempan, Councilman Tom Hogue and Hoskins often voted together. Council members Susan Wei, Todd Grant and Anderson appear to be the loyal opposition. Councilman Dale Avery is a maverick. By that yardstick, each voting bloc loses an ally this year. But there could be a shift in the balance of terror.