Salem's city council has filed a petition in Salem Circuit Court requesting a special election for the post of sheriff on May 6, the same day as the city's general election.

At its meeting Monday at 7:30 p.m., the city council will vote on a resolution related to the sheriff's election.

Chief Deputy Capt. Eric "Ric" Atkins is serving as acting sheriff. Sheriff Roger Surber committed suicide in December.

The Salem Sheriff's Office is responsible for providing court security, transporting Salem prisoners and serving court paperwork, such as warrants and eviction notices.

In the past, Roanoke County Circuit Court judges appointed the interim sheriff when the office became vacant. State law has changed to allow the next ranking officer to step up in an acting basis.

Following are other items on city council's agenda:

n A presentation about the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission's work program for the 2008-2009 fiscal year.

n Set bond for erosion and sediment control for Salem Frame and Penguin Lane development projects.

n Make appointments to fill vacancies on boards and commissions.

-- Marquita Brown