Mayor Jeff Ussery has announced his resignation from the Republic City Council. Ussery was elected in April 2017 and reelected in April 2020.
On Tuesday, the mayor stated, "Over the last several weeks, I have been struggling with a decision. I have taken on a new role within my career that has required more and more of a time commitment, which could affect my ability to attend meetings regularly. While I have absolutely loved serving as your mayor, I have to consider the time constraints I have in life currently and the effect that has on my family. I have made the decision to step down as mayor. As much as I love serving in this part-time capacity, I have to focus on my family and my full-time career. I feel proud of what we have accomplished since 2017 and also confident in the ability of the staff and council to keep it going. Republic is my home, and I love it along with the people I have had an opportunity to serve. But, there comes a time when we all must reflect on the margin we have in life. We only live once, and our children deserve all we can give them. My wife would definitely tell you I have a really hard time saying “no” when someone asks me to serve in any capacity. But service to my family comes first and foremost. Thank you for letting me serve you for the last several years! #RepMoProud"
The council meeting planned for Tuesday, July 21st, will be Mayor Ussery’s last. Following that, Mayor Pro-Tem Matt Russell will fill the seat until the vacancy can be filled through an upcoming election. The date of that election will be announced in the coming weeks.