A work session for the Selma City Council is coming up for members to discuss the Ward 1 council seat vacancy.

Council President Cecil Williamson said he would call the session to talk about the issue. A time has yet to be set.

“I think we need further discussion on this,” said Williamson.

The ward seat became vacant when Williamson moved to the council presidency after the death of Dr. Geraldine Allen.

A majority said they favored holding a special election to fill the vacancy when polled in an unofficial vote during the public meeting Tuesday at City Hall.

Those favoring a special election to fill the vacancy are Susan Keith of Ward 2, Dr. Monica Newton of Ward 3, Corey Bowie of Ward 7, Williamson, B.L. Tucker of Ward 6.

Those favoring appointing a person to fill the vacancy for the remaining two-and-one-half years are Sam Randolph of Ward 5, Angela Benjamin of Ward 4 and Bennie Ruth Crenshaw of Ward 8.

“It’s not set in stone,” said Williamson. “There’s a lot to consider.”

Alabama law says the council can appoint a representative to fill the open seat for the remainder of the term. The law goes on to say if the council cannot agree on an appointee, a special election is declared.

An unscientific door-to-door poll in Ward 1 conducted by reporters from The Selma Times-Journal indicated a majority of residents wanted to vote for their representation. The reporters talked to about 100 people in the ward and only the remarks of those who said they are registered to vote were counted in the results.