Sheila Hill-Christian's resignation as Richmond's chief administrative officer not only surprised but shocked. If anyone saw it coming, then he or she did not squeal. Leaks did not occur.

Hill-Christian took the position last November. Her résumé of accomplishment led many, ourselves included, to anticipate the dawning of an era of good feelings in city government. It was not to be, probably for reasons having little to do with Hill-Christian's leadership.

Mayor Douglas Wilder, whose term expires in five months, says he will not name a replacement. It would be futile to select a so-called permanent chief. Who would take the job? Yet as mayoral candidate Paul Goldman pointed out in yesterday morning's inevitable e-mail, the City Charter stipulates the process for appointing an "acting" chief administrative officer in the event of a vacancy at the top.

The mayor, with the advice and consent of the City Council, shall designate the person.

We nominate Sisyphus.