Morgantown Councilmember Brian Butcher Resigns

Morgantown City Council 7th Ward representative Brian Butcher announced he will resign within the next few weeks after closing on a new home outside his district. Butcher, first elected in 2021 and re‑elected to a four‑year term in 2023, said he will remain on the council until his move is finalized.

Mayor Danielle Trumble said the council will begin the process to fill the vacancy, either by appointing a qualified voter from the ward within 30 days or by holding a special election no sooner than 90 days and no later than 120 days after the resignation. Council members were urged to start accepting applications now. City Manager Jamie Miller has also been consulted about possible advisory roles for Butcher after he steps down. The resignation follows Butcher’s prior service as deputy mayor and his involvement in local policy debates, and it comes after a defamation lawsuit against him in 2025.