Tallulah Mayor Charles M. Finlayson submitted his resignation on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, effective at the close of business the same day.
In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Nancy Landry, Finlayson stated the decision followed consultation with his family and physicians. "My current helth conditions require me to step away from my mayoral duties," Finlayson said.
The resignation becomes official upon receipt of the signed letter by the Secretary of State’s office, in accordance with Louisiana Revised Statute 18:654. An original copy of the letter was sent by overnight delivery to ensure compliance with the statute, according to the letter.
Upon official receipt, the mayor’s office will be considered vacant. Under Louisiana law, the Tallulah City Council has 20 days to appoint a replacement. The deadline for that appointment is July 29. If no appointment is made by that date, the authority to fill the vacancy will shift to Governor Jeff Landry.
Because less than eighteen months remain in the current term, the appointed individual will serve until the next regular municipal election in 2026.
Finlayson thanked council members and residents in his letter and called on the community to continue its efforts in support of the city. "During my tenure as Mayor, it has been my greatest honor to serve the citizens of Tallulah. I am proud of the progress made under my adiminstration and remain confident that the City of Tallulah will thrive under new leadership," Finlayson said.
District four councilwoman Marjorie Day will lead the next City Council meeting on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
