Unpacking Lake Havasu City’s ‘Resignation to Run’ Code: The Five W’s Explained

The Lake Havasu City Council took a significant step on Tuesday, voting 5-2 to introduce a new code concerning resignations for those seeking public office within the city.

The dissenting votes came from Councilmembers Nancy Campbell and Michele Lin. While the council’s decision paves the way for further actions, the code amendment still requires formal adoption at an upcoming meeting.

This new regulation will primarily impact local citizens aspiring for City Council or mayoral positions. Those who serve on city boards—including the Airport Advisory Board, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Planning and Zoning Commission, and Board of Adjustment—will need to resign from their current roles when filing a statement of interest and gathering signatures.

The proposal, read by City Attorney Kelly Garry, marks the beginning of a process aimed at ensuring clear ethical practices in local elections. Following the introduction, the council will hold a vote for official adoption in a future session.

Arizona’s existing resignation to run law mandates that elected officials resign upon submitting nomination papers for another position, impacting those who transition to the mayoral role or seek higher county or state offices.

Locally, the code specifically addresses practices in Lake Havasu City. Garry noted that numerous other cities in Arizona have adopted similar resignation requirements when candidates pursue new public offices.

The impetus for this code stems from the vision of fairness articulated by Councilmember David Lane. He emphasized the need for a “level playing field” between board members and other election candidates. Mayor Cal Sheehy further highlighted the importance of minimizing the influence of political campaigns on board members’ recommendations to the council.