A historic transition of Memphis political power may only be four days away, but there's still considerable disagreement about when Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton will officially leave office.
City Council Chairman Myron Lowery is expected to be sworn in as mayor pro tem Friday at noon.
But City Council attorney Allan Wade said he interpreted Herenton's resignation letter to read that Friday would be the mayor's last day, meaning he would remain at the city's helm until close of business Friday. This could leave two mayors in charge of Memphis for close to five hours.
Lowery said both he and Herenton had agreed on a noon swear-in.
"I will be sworn in at noon to assume the duties," Lowery said. "But I'm not going to argue about a few hours."
The debate could be cleared up Tuesday when the City Council is scheduled to approve a resolution declaring a vacancy in the mayor's office. Wade said he did not yet have a copy of the resolution.
A special election will be held within 90 days of the declared vacancy date.
City Atty. Elbert Jefferson was not immediately available for comment
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