FAYETTEVILLE -- City Council member Alan Long, who represents Ward 4 on the west side of town, resigned effective immediately.

Long told Mayor Lioneld Jordan in a letter dated Saturday he came to the decision because of family and professional obligations and the time commitment required of a council member. Long is a buyer for Newly Weds Foods Inc. He began serving on the City Council in 2013 and was re-elected last year.

Document Alan Long resignation letter View

The City Council will have to appoint someone to fill Long's seat or set a special election during Tuesday's meeting, City Attorney Kit Williams said in a memo.

That means the city needs applicants from Ward 4 residents immediately. Chief of Staff Don Marr recommended anyone interested should attend Tuesday's meeting. The item will be placed last on the agenda.

If the council decides to host a special election it would likely be Feb. 13.

Long said serving his constituents has brought him great joy, taking on issues such as traffic, a lack of parks and an expanding university campus. He said he hoped the city and university would continue to work together to solve any issues and take a proactive approach to growth.

"I sincerely hope that those who follow in my place will have the passion for public service and constituent outreach that I do," he said. "I have confidence that the current City Council will continue to carry out goals and endeavors that will benefit all of Fayetteville."

Ward 4 includes Wedington Drive, Mount Comfort Road, Bryce Davis Park, Holt Middle School and Holcomb Elementary School.

To apply, call 575-8323 or email [email protected]

NW News on 11/20/2017