Mayor Herenton Delays Retirement Date

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton has announced he is delaying his retirement date until July 30, 2009.

The Mayor stated in a letter to Councilman Myron Lowery there are a number of matters regarding city businesses that he needs to work on before retiring.

"There remains some important city business matters that I need additional time to complete. Several Division Directors have contractual matters that need to be resolved. I have also requested Keith McGee to remain in office until July 30, 2009," Herenton stated.

The letter also goes on to address what could be considered a conflict of Lowery holding the Mayor Pro-tem position, asking "First, is it appropriate for the Mayor Pro-tem to hold an executive and legislative position at the same time? Should the citizens in a special election vote for a Mayor and your vacant Council Seat?"

Herenton closed the letter stating that  "An immediate friendly lawsuit may be necessary."

According to a letter from City Attorney Alan Wade, the city charter states that Lowery would keep his council seat while serving as Mayor Pro-tem, however his seat is frozen until he either returns to the council or vacates his seat. The Vice-Chair of the City Council, Harold Collins, would serve as Council Chairman while Lowery served as Mayor Pro-tem.

Myron Lowery stated this afternoon that the City Council will vote tomorrow on whether or not Mayor Herenton's resignation will stand and he be asked to vacate the position of Mayor on July 10th, or whether he will be able to delay his resignation until July 30th. The City Council will also vote to approve the vacancy of the postion of Mayor.