City Press Release - Grand Forks City Councillor, Michael Wirischagin, advised City staff over the weekend that he will be leaving his seat on City Council effective immediately.
Wirischagin is eight months into his third term on Council and has made a decision to focus on a career outside of local politics. In a statement provided to the City Wirischagin said “It is with the deepest regret that I have to inform you that I will be vacating my seat on council effective immediately, Sunday Aug. 9, 2015 to focus on my career ambitions outside of the council chambers. While not an easy decision, it certainly has been one that has been considered even before the previous. My family and I are forever indebted to the City of Grand Forks and its constituents for the three terms on council and for all of your support. After seven years in the public realm we do look forward to enjoying our private lives. We wish all members of council and staff all the best, and that Grand Forks shall continue to be on a path of prosperity.”
Mayor Frank Konrad says “City Council and I wish Mr. Wirischagin well in his future endeavors, and extend a heartfelt thank you for stepping into local politics for two terms. Councillor Wirischagin has contributed his time and energy into making Grand Forks an excellent community to settle down in and has been instrumental in the promotion of sporting events and activities in the community.”
A by-election is legislatively required and is projected to take place late in 2015 or early 2016.