PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WVEC) -- Councilman Danny Meeks resigned from Portsmouth City Council, Tuesday.
"There's nothing wrong," said Meeks over the phone to 13News Now Laura Geller, about the decision to resign. "I am very busy with my business and, you know, we have some family events coming up. I am not going to be able to make the last two meetings. Since I wasn't going to be able to make the last two meetings I didn't think it was right to take the taxpayer money for those meetings."
Meeks believes that the city is heading in the right direction.
"I think the people have spoken, I think the council that's coming in is going to do a great job."
He also spoke highly of John Rowe. "I think John Rowe is going to be asset to the city. He is going to educate the councilmembers."
As for the future, Meeks says that his family comes first and that he has several businesses that he owns. He plans to continue being involved with the city, but he doesn't think it is fair to the citizens to stay when he cannot give it his full attention.
"I wish I could stay in there and fight the good fight for the people. I am still going to be involved with the city, but I don't think I can be 110% every day following the problems, chasing the issues as a councilmember should. I just don't think it's fair for the citizens if I don't give 100%."
In a resignation letter, obtained by 13News Now, Meeks says:
Dear Councilmembers:It has been my pleasure to serve the people of my hometown Portsmouth as their Councilman for the last four years. Portsmouth is on the proper path and I am confident that the City Council will do what is necessary in the time that is left in this term and the years ahead.
Therefore, I am taking this opportunity to interrupt my public service and resign as a member of the City Council effective immediately. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve.
Best wishes to you and the incoming Councilmembers.Resignation of City Council Membership by 13News Now on Scribd