From BDS today...wonder what's up with city councilors...
Two more city councilors resign
By Rose Dodge
Mar 09, 2011 12:00 am
BERLIN – Citing increasing work commitments, two more city councilors have submitted their resignations.
The City Council Monday night voted to accept with regret the resignations of Ward IV Councilor David Poulin and Ward I Councilor Ryan Landry.
Last month, Councilor Tim Cayer stepped down from the eight member council, citing family commitments. Former Councilor Diana Nelson was appointed to fill the vacancy.
Poulin, whose term runs until 2012, said he has recently expanded several of his businesses and has started a new Verizon store in Mexico, Maine. He said he now has the opportunity to open additional locations. Poulin said the growth was unexpected.
“I have attempted to balance the demands of my business, family and city responsibilities but now have come to the conclusion that all will suffer if I do not make some adjustments,” he wrote in his resignation letter.
Landry, whose term runs until 2014, said he has increased work responsibilities at the state prison where he works as a nurse. He noted he has been unable to attend council meetings the last few months and does not see the situation changing in the near future.
“Due to my inability to attend these meetings and commit time to the important issues facing the city I feel the best option for the city, as well as myself, is to resign from my seat as Ward I Councilor,” Landry wrote in his resignation letter.
The council is accepting letters of interest in the positions through 4 p.m. on March 18. To qualify, candidates must be 18 years of age, a resident of Berlin for at least a year, and a resident of the ward. The vacancies will be up for election in November.
Mayor Paul Grenier said the two openings provide people interested in city government with a unique opportunity to try serving on council without making a long-term commitment.
“It’s a great opportunity to test the water,” he said.
Councilor Tom McCue said it’s also an opportunity for citizens to get involved. He noted the council is just beginning the budget process, which he pointed out, is the most important time for the council.
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