Richland seeks candidates for council seat won by man who died before election
The city of Richland is accepting applications for the city council seat won by a candidate who died before the November general election in 2025.
The deadline to apply is Jan. 16.
Richland voters elected Donald Landsman to Position 4 in November, two months after he died unexpectedly over Labor Day weekend.
Landsman’s family and the Benton County GOP encouraged voters to cast ballots for him over John Maier, a recent high school graduate running for election the first time.
Landsman won with more than 56% of the vote, defeating Maier 8,378 votes to 6,457.
Landsman’s replacement will be appointed by the remaining city council and will serve until a candidate is elected in the Nov. 3, 2026 election.
Applications are available at richlandwa.gov/bccvacancies, or by calling 509-942-7389.
Eligibility requirements
- At least 18 years of age
- Registered voter
- Live in city of Richland at least two continuous years prior to appointment
- U.S. citizen
- Not hold any other public office, excepting service in the National Guard, organized reserves, or as a notary public.
- Not employed by the city of Richland.
The Richland City Council generally meets the first, third and fourth Tuesday of the month for business and workshop sessions.
The council is the governing body for the city. It oversees the city manager, sets the budget and makes policy and other decisions.
This story was originally published January 5, 2026 at 10:57 AM.