GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- The Grand Rapids City Commission has an open seat and is seeking residents interested in filling the position until a new Third Ward commissioner can be elected in August 2019.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. Monday, July 2.

To apply, individuals must be at least 18 years old, a registered voter and live in the city's Third Ward.

They also must have lived in Grand Rapids for at least six months, and be in good standing with the city's attorney office, treasurer's office and the income tax department.

"This is an exciting time to be part of the city commission as we get ready to select a new city manager and as we continue to address critical issues related to housing, economic development and community and police relations," said Mayor Rosalynn Bliss in a statement.

"I encourage anyone who is interested and serious about applying to do so."

Application for the open city commissioner seat

Map of Grand Rapids' ward boundaries

The Third Ward commissioner seat was vacated by David Allen, who said he resigned to focus on his role as executive director of the Kent County Land Bank. He announced the decision April 24, and officially stepped down June 12.

Bliss and Third Ward Commissioner Senita Lenear were in favor of appointing former commissioner James White to replace Allen, citing his experience and lack of learning curve as favorable qualities. But after residents and other commissioners voiced their opposition, White withdrew his name for consideration.

The city clerk's office will publish the list of applicants on July 6. City commissioners will discuss the candidate list and announce a schedule for the interview process.

A subcommittee made up of Lenear, commissioners Jon O'Connor (First Ward) and Joe Jones (Second Ward), and Third Ward residents will conduct first-round interviews.

Commissioners are expected to discuss and announce the schedules for candidate interviews, a public hearing and their vote during the 9:30 a.m. July 10 committee of the whole meeting on the ninth floor of City Hall.

According to a city release, ideal candidates have:

An understanding of the job of a city commissioner and of the issues facing the city and Third Ward.

Flexible personal and professional schedules, and plans for managing the demands of a part-time position that has full-time expectations

Professional experience, educational background and examples of involvement in addressing local issues.

Experience working with diverse groups of people who have diverse opinions about critical issues.

Major topics on the city commission's agenda in the coming months include hiring a new city manager, shaping and voting on affordable-housing proposals, and determining how to spend money earmarked for improving community-police relations.