LYNCHBURG, Va. – Lynchburg City Councilman Randy Nelson announced his resignation from council effective at noon on Monday, Nov. 7.
The council is made up of seven members, four of whom represent the city’s four wards and three of whom are chosen at large.
This year, the three at-large seats will be on the ballot, with the three top candidates earning four-year terms.
Nelson did not run for reelection. He said he hopes his resignation will give his replacement more time to become accustomed to the responsibilities prior to the budgeting process.
During a work session on Tuesday, Nelson announced his resignation along with asking the council to eventually have a special meeting to replace his seat.
“As a team player, I feel a responsibility, not a duty an obligation to help whoever takes my position on our team to be as well prepared as possible,” Nelson said.
Ordinarily, newly elected city council members would take the seats when the terms of the current members would end. However, Nelson said he wants to give a non-incumbent as much time as possible to get used to the responsibilities.
During Tuesday’s city council work session, Ward IV Councilman Chris Faraldi called Nelson his “mentor” while recognizing what the outgoing councilor means to him.
Tuesday night’s City Council meeting was the last meeting for Nelson, so he was given the last word.
“Not quite 13 years but coming very close to 13 years on this council. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Thank you,” Nelson said.