The Powers City Council appointed Edward Hamlett as mayor at a special meeting Monday. The decision follows the resignation of Barbara Cottom last week.

The former mayor said health reasons led to her decision to step down, though she also was the target of a recall election set for May 27.

Councilor Bob Leckband, who also is a target of the recall, said Hamlett was the only councilor who expressed interest in the position. His appointment was made by a 5-0 decision, with Pete Cunningham abstaining.

Hamlett previously served on the council, though his recent stay began last August when he was appointed to replace Merle Kalb Jr.

The new mayor will serve out the remainder of Cottom’s term, which runs through the end of the year.

— Staff Writer Alexander Rich