Can villagers move before you get your development permit?

[Sdj4148]

My 2nd town is a temporary cycling town that I recently restarted. Currently I have 71% approval and since I'm not talking to my villagers, I have a long way to go. Is it possible for villagers to move before I get my permit?

 

[Meliara]

Yes! I learned that the hard way. Lost Marshal. =(

 

[laineybop]

Yep, I've had several villagers leave before getting 100% in my cycle towns... As soon as you get 9 villagers, anybody can leave.