The Demopolis City Council officially declared Mitchell Congress’ council seat vacant during Thursday night’s meeting.

Congress, who represented District 2, turned in his resignation last week, citing health concerns.

The council now has 60 days to make an appointment to the seat. If they are unable to do so, the decision would go to Gov. Robert Bentley, who would have 60 days to pick someone.

If the governor declined to make an appointment, a special election would be held to chose someone to finish the term, which goes through the fall of 2016.

“Frankly, I don’t think we will need an election, and I don’t think we’ll need to send it to the governor,” said Mayor Mike Grayson.

In other business, the council gave Demopolis Police Chief Tommie Reese approval to apply for a grant for two motorcycles for the department.

If the grant is awarded, Reese said they motorcycles would only be used on patrols during clear weather and during special events. They would also only be driven by officers specially trained at the trooper academy in Selma, Reese said.

The council also reappointed Arthur Taylor to the Demopolis Water and Sewer Board in a 4-1 vote. Cleveland Cole cast the no vote.