Embattled Pacific mayor appeals recall effort

The turmoil over Pacific Mayor Cy Sun will likely continue into the next year after the embattled city leader filed an appeal to delay or prevent a special election to oust him from office.

Opponents hoped to gather enough signatures to hold a recall election by the end of the year, but Sun’s appeal means the decision now goes to the state Supreme Court.

Critics accuse the mayor of rampant mismanagement. He was arrested previously for breaking into city hall and accused of destroying city records. A judge ruled earlier this month that allegations he failed to hire police officers and ordered members of the department to act as his personal police force were grounds for a recall if proven.

Members of the recall committee can’t begin gathering signatures until the court decision, if it rules in its favor. An election can’t be held until at least 45 days after the signatures are verified, The News Tribune reports.

The uncertainty is sparking fears about the city’s future. Its insurance carrier has said it would drop Pacific’s liability coverage at the end of the year if the situation remains unresolved. Some worry it could lead to disincorporation of the city of about 6,500 residents in southeast King County.