Mayor convicted, office must be vacated

BAYOU LA BATRE, Ala. (WALA) - The City of Bayou La Batre is looking for a new mayor.

Former Mayor Stan Wright was convicted Friday afternoon on four federal corruption charges, and state law dictates he must leave office.

Alabama law states that when an office holder is convicted of a felony, the office must be vacated at the time of the conviction.

It’s now up to the city council to elect the new mayor. It can either appoint a council member or any member of the public “as long as they're a qualified elector and otherwise would meet the legal requirements for that position,” said city attorney Misty Gray.

The council has 60 days to fill the position. If within that allotted time no one is appointed, it will be turned over to the governor who has an additional 30 days.

 “There's really no procedures as far as how they consider individuals other than you have to meet the legal qualifications. Same as if you chose to run for the office,” Gray said.

FOX10 asked some of you who you want to see take over the position. Some mentioned Henry Barnes, whom Wright defeated in last year’s runoff.  

“I think Henry needs to be in there. They had a runoff between the two and he's a good dude, I think Henry needs to be in there,” a resident said.

Some said the city needs someone with experience in politics while others want a new face that can bring different ideas to the table.

Until the council decides, City Clerk Donna Gainey said the council’s chairperson Ida Coleman, is in charge, but decisions will be made by the entire council.

The next Bayou La Batre City work session is scheduled for a week from today, on Monday, March 11. The next city council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 14.

Related: Some concerned following Wright corruption verdict

FOX10 reached out to Wright's attorney about the possibility of an appeal. He was not able to meet with us today, but did say a final decision regarding an appeal must be made in June.