The San Mateo City Council is starting off 2015 with a vacancy.
Council Member Robert Ross, 57, submitted his resignation on December 31, effective Tuesday. In a letter to the City Clerk, Ross cited medical issues related to a heart condition as his reason for leaving.
“I will forever love the City of San Mateo and its people,” Ross wrote, thanking the community for 33 years of trust and support.
Ross has served on the council since 2009 and just completed a year as mayor. For the preceding 27 years, he served as an officer with the San Mateo Police Department, rising to the rank of lieutenant.
“Robert’s departure from his role on City Council represents a huge loss for the City of San Mateo which he has served with distinction and devotion for many years,” said Mayor Maureen Freschet. The mayor wished him health and happiness.
The council has 30 days to appoint a successor who will serve until the next general election in November of 2015. The winner of that election will serve out the remainder of Ross’ term which ends in 2017.
Council Member David Lim believes former council member Claire Mack should fill the seat in the interim. Mack, who served until 2003, has said she would accept the job if it is offered to her.
Read more about Ross’ departure here.