Town of Coupeville Councilwoman Christine Crowell announced she is leaving her seat early because of an illness in her family.

Crowell’s departure means her seat in Coupeville’s town council is vacant, and citizens interested in filling it can apply now.

Crowell will be missed, said Mayor Molly Hughes.

“She’s been a great council member,” Hughes said. “She jumped in and has a very different and interesting perspective on a lot of things.”

Crowell’s fresh points of view were welcome as a retired attorney, Hughes said.

“She’s been a pleasure to work with.”

“I truly enjoyed working with Chris. She is a consummate professional,” councilwoman Pat Powell said in an email. “She is well-prepared, intelligent, thoughtful and (considerate) in discussing issues. Her legal experience was an asset on the council.”

Powell said she looks forward to the possibility of Crowell returning to Coupeville someday.

Candidates for the vacant council seat must apply by July 16. They will be publicly vetted during a town council meeting on July 24. Those who pass the selection process will be interviewed on Aug. 14.

The council will appoint a resident to fill this position until the next election in November 2019.

To apply for the position, one must turn in a letter of interest to Town Hall stating relevant experience and history of community service. Applications, which can be found on the town’s website, are due to Town Hall no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, July 16.