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6 residents apply for open council seat

City News January 30, 2026
infographic showing update on ward 3 council seat. 6 residents applied, Mayor interviewing applicants, Mayor to appoint applicant to serve rest of 2026, voters choose a council in Nov. 3 election.

Six residents of Ward 3 have applied for the Albert Lea City Council seat recently vacated by Jason Howland: Scott Christensen, David Enser, Nicholas Hanke, Elizabeth Harty, Ted Herman and Todd Utpadel.

Mayor Rich Murray is interviewing the candidates before making a selection. Under city ordinance, he may appoint a Ward 3 resident to serve the remainder of 2026. The council seat will be on the Nov. 3 ballot with the winner taking office in January 2027.

Learn more about council decisions by watching the meeting recordings on YouTube.