City Council opening

Riverbank City Council member Kathy Anaya has tendered her resignation from the Council effective February 1, 2008.

It has been my privilege to work alongside Kathy for the past three years. She and I came onto the council at the same time after the November 2004 election. Her presence on the Council will be missed. Kathy was a staunch supporter of the Riverbank Downtown Businesses, helping to launch what would become the Riverbank Business Association.

Thank you for your service.

Due to the unfortunate resignation of Councilmember Anaya, the City of Riverbank has a vacancy on the City Council.

The Council voted last night in a 3 -1 decision to appoint a member of the community to this position to fulfill the remainder of Ms. Anaya’s term which is up in November.

I supported this decision as, from my own personal feelings, I did not want to have the position vacant until June when the next county-wide election takes place. I understand that there is a feeling among residents that residents should have a choice of who to vote on for this position. I understand that perspective, and support the residents’ right to vote on Council members.

However, first, I did not feel that it would serve the best interests of the City to have that position vacant until June. And second I did not want to put anyone in the position of having to run for an election in June, only to have to turn around and run again in November at the end of Ms. Anaya’s term.

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