University Park officials have scheduled a special election for Dec. 29 to fill the town's vacant Ward 7 council seat.

The seat on the seven-member council has been empty since former Councilman Ed DeSaussure resigned Nov. 2. DeSaussure, who was elected to his lone term in 2008, cited what he considered the town's overspending as the reason for his resignation.

According to the town charter, the town is required to hold an election within 60 days of a council member's resignation. The Town Council voted unanimously Monday to hold the election Dec. 29.

"We only have 60 days to get this done," said Mayor John Tabori. "Obviously, we don't want to have an election on a weekend."

As of Tuesday, no candidates had filed or sought necessary paperwork from Town Hall, said Town Clerk Amy Headley. Candidates have until Dec. 11 to submit required forms and a petition signed by 10 Ward 7 residents.

Candidates must be Ward 7 residents who have lived in University Park for at least the past two years. They must also be at least 25 years old and registered to vote in the town.

If no candidates file, the mayor will appoint a replacement, who would have to be approved by the Town Council. The new council member will be up for re-election in May.

Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 29 at Riverdale Presbyterian Church, located at 6513 Queens Chapel Road in University Park.

E-mail David Hill at dhill@gazette.net.