By JIM BUTLER

What a difference a day makes, except in this case we’re not talking about Dinah’s 24 little hours.

Governor Jeff Landry has called a special election to fill a Woodworth council vacancy created by the August resignation of longtime member Tommy Melder.

In contrast to the continuing mayoral saga in Pineville, an election is required by law to finish Melder’s unexpired term.

Timing, as Jimmy Jones would say, is the variable.

More than 18 months remained in Melder’s term, requiring an election, which Landry this month set for March 29, 2025.

Beleaguered Pineville Mayor Rich Dupree’s initial resignation date fell under the same 18 months dictate.

Once he realized the Spring election date had been extended due to change in state law, allowing him to stay in office longer and still allow the city to avoid a special election expense, Dupree reset for October 20.

Objectors to that decision have been vociferous in tenor, questioning Dupree’s intentions and motives.

Less than 18 months remaining in term requires the City Council to appoint a successor to serve it out.

That must be done within 20 days of Dupree’s departure, otherwise the governor appoints.

Lobbying for one person or another is well under way, on the record and off.

In Woodworth the council in September appointed Carrie Harrington to Melder’s vacant seat.

Qualifying for the March primary will be in January. A runoff if necessary after the primary will be May 3.