Port Orange City Council member Kat Atwood resigns

PORT ORANGE, Fla. — Citing medical reasons, Port Orange City Council member Kat Atwood resigned from her post Tuesday, effective immediately.

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Atwood was elected to a four-year term in August. A temporary replacement will be appointed by the council until a special election for the seat can be held.

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The winner of that election would then serve out the remainder of Atwood’s term, which is set to expire in December of 2026.

Atwood grew up in Orange City and attended high school in DeLand. She served 22 years in the United States Navy before retiring and returning to Volusia County.

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“This has not been an easy decision,” Atwood said. “If I’m not able to give it my all, I need to step down and allow someone else to have the opportunity…I will continue to seek out ways to serve the City of Port Orange as I am able, but for now I need to focus on my health.”

“Her dedication to this community and willingness to serve this city and its citizens will truly be missed,” Port orange Mayor Don Burnette said. “I know this was a difficult decision for her and her family to make, but I must respect their privacy at this time, and I wish the entire Atwood family only the best.”

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The details of the special election for Atwood’s seat will be discussed at the City Council’s Feb. 7 meeting.

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