Summary
Donnie Johnson's seat is officially vacant. Fourteen people have applied, and council will hear candidates at a special forum May 6 or 7, with an appointment due by May 26.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 22, 2026.
Impact analysis
No direct cost — the position is volunteer council service filling an existing term.
The 14 (and counting) applicants seeking the seat and residents wanting representation.
No groups negatively affected
Mentions & discussions (6)
City Council - Jun 22, 2026
Voters will decide in November whether council vacancies get filled faster by election instead of waiting for appointments. Former councilmember Dennis Whitty argued the current setup amounts to musical chairs.
City Council - City Council Candidate Q&A - May 26, 2026
The seat vacated by Donnie Johnson's resignation drew 24 applications; four finalists were narrowed to three who appeared for Q&A. The choice mattered because the council is weighing major funded projects — a police/fire bond and the Kulik Center — and members repeatedly cited the need for financial expertise.
Ferndale Narrows Council Appointment Down to Four Choices, Decision May 26
Ferndale Narrows Council Appointment Down to Four Choices, Decision May 26 Oakland County Times
City Council - May 11, 2026
Council members shared their shortlists for the open council seat, with Renee Townsend, Nina LaSalle, and Chris Hall appearing on multiple lists. The appointment must be made by the May 26 meeting.
City Council - City Council Applicant Forum - May 7, 2026
Councilmember Donnie Johnson resigned effective April 27, 2026, and the council must appoint a replacement by May 26. A record 24 residents applied and most pitched the council in person Thursday; deliberations happen Monday, May 11. The appointee serves through 2027.
City Council - Apr 27, 2026
Donnie Johnson's seat is officially vacant. Fourteen people have applied, and council will hear candidates at a special forum May 6 or 7, with an appointment due by May 26.
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