Mariel Williams
editor@mitchellnews.com
Councilman Larry McKinney has resigned from the Spruce Pine Town Council.
McKinney said that he is stepping down because of changes in his personal and professional life. He is the owner of Larry’s Auto Detailing.
“I just have to take a break — I’ve got some stuff that’s pushing, that I’ve got to take care of,” he said. “I don’t want to miss [town council] meetings.”
However, McKinney said he is not done with Spruce Pine politics.
“I’m going to run again,” he said.
McKinney said he might step back into local politics as early as next year. In the meantime, he said he is still available to hear his former constituents’ concerns.
“All the Spruce Pine citizens, I’m still open for them to call me if I can help them in any way,” he said.
With McKinney gone, it is now up to the remaining council members to decide how to fill his seat.
“North Carolina General Statute provides that the Council is responsible for filling vacancies, but does not specify the timing and method,” said Town Manager Darlene Butler.