PORT ORANGE, Fla. — Citing medical reasons, Port Orange City Council member Kat Atwood resigned from her post Tuesday, effective immediately.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
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.
READ: State attorney pushes to hold officers accountable for violating rules
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.
READ: Some teachers removing classroom libraries to comply with new Florida rules, officials say
“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.”
READ: New BCU head football coach Ed Reed apologizes after he trashes school on social media
The details of the special election for Atwood’s seat will be discussed at the City Council’s Feb. 7 meeting.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
©2022 Cox Media Group
