Calgary city councillor Richard Pootmans steps down, effective immediately – Calgary [Video]

Ward 6 Coun. Richard Pootmans is stepping down as his role as city councillor effective immediately, council learned during its meeting late Tuesday.

The announcement was made by the City of Calgary’s chief administrative officer, David Duckworth, after a lengthy closed-door session with council labelled as a ‘personnel matter’ on the agenda.

“Today, I received written notice from Coun. Pootmans that he is stepping down as Ward 6 councillor for personal and family reasons,” Duckworth said. “Under the Municipal Government Act, this notice is effective immediately.”

Duckworth thanked Pootmans for his “dedication and service to his ward” on behalf of city administration.”

Pootmans was notably absent from council chambers during Tuesday’s meeting.

In a statement released moments later, Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek said she wanted to assure Ward 6 residents that they “will continue to be well-represented during this period of transition.”

“Details of how we will ensure uninterrupted representation are currently being finalized and will be …