The Thief River Falls City Council is seeking applicants for the Ward 3 position, which will become vacant once council member Mike Lorenson is formally sworn in as mayor. (Map courtesy of the City of Thief River Falls)

The Thief River Falls City Council has begun the process of filling the upcoming Ward 3 vacancy. At its meeting Tuesday, Dec. 3, the council approved advertising for applicants to fill the position being vacated by council member Mike Lorenson. Lorenson was elected mayor in November, and he will take the oath of office Jan. 7.

In order to be eligible for the appointment, a Ward 3 resident must be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old. The term expires Dec. 31, 2026.

Applications will be taken until 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27. The council will interview eligible applicants Thursday, Jan. 9 at 5:30 p.m. during an adjourned council meeting. Applications are available online at https://citytrf-services.app.transform.civicplus.com/forms/46089 or by stopping in at City Hall. It is tentatively planned that the new council member will be appointed and sworn in at the regular council meeting Tuesday, Jan. 21.