NEW BEDFORD - Some notable names have popped up as possible candidates for the now-vacant Ward Three seat on the New Bedford City Council.

Republican State Committeewoman and former School Committee member Jill Marie Ussach has taken out nomination papers, along with former Ward Three Councillor Kathy Dehner.

Hugh Dunn, a former staffer for Congressman William Keating also appears on the list of those who have signed for a nomination packet.

Also officially considering a Ward Three run are attorney and former Ward Six Councillor Mark Zajac, along with Cheryl Morrissette, Bethany Fauteux, Lisa Lemieux, and Frank Erdman.

The prospective candidates have until Wednesday at 5 P.M. to return nomination papers with at least 50 certified signatures.

Lisa Lemieux told WBSM's Chris McCarthy Sunday morning that she will not be returning her nomination papers.

If more than two people are deemed qualified candidates, a preliminary election will be held on March 28 before the final election on April 25.

The Ward Three seat was vacated by Henry Bousquet, who resigned his position on February 1, which prompted the special election.

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