Pine City Council officially declares vacancy after Pettie's resignation; Swanson designated as acting mayor

The Pine City Council officially declared a vacancy at Wednesday's meeting after council member Gina Pettie resigned from her seat on Feb. 18.

Pettie, who was also the council's most recent acting mayor, first joined the council in 2017.

On Wednesday, the council voted 3-0 to designate council member Dan Swanson as acting mayor. Council member Dave Hill was absent from the meeting.

The acting mayor performs the duties of the mayor when the mayor is temporarily absent or unable to perform the duties of the office.

The council also decided to discuss how to proceed with addressing the vacancy at their next meeting, scheduled for March 18.

The seat's term expires at the end of 2026, which means the council would be able to fill the vacancy by appointment.

Pettie's resignation letter, shared as part of the meeting's agenda, reads:

"Dear Mayor and Members of the Pine City Council,

After thoughtful consideration, I am resigning from my position as a member of the Pine City Council, effective February 18, 2026.

It has been an honor to serve the residents of Pine City and to work alongside fellow council members and city staff. I appreciate the opportunity to serve our community.

Sincerely,

Gina Pettie

City Council Member"