Rockwall council member Mark Russo resigns after being elected justice of the peace

He will stay on the council until September 18, 2012.

Mark Russo

ROCKWALL — Third-term Rockwall City Council member Mark Russo has announced his resignation effective September 18, 2012, after being elected July 31 as the justice of the peace in the new county Precinct 3.

Selected by other council members as mayor pro tem for 2012, he was first elected in May 2008 after one unsuccessful attempt in 2006.

Russo said he decided to announce his resignation now in order to ensure that there will be time to name a suitable replacement. He will begin his new JP position after being sworn in in early January 2013.

According to Mayor David Sweet, a replacement will be appointed to fill Russo’ seat until the next election in May 2013. He said more details will be announced at the next Council meeting, August 20.

Russo praised the city and its staff in his resignation.

“I just wanted to say it has been a honor serving the city of Rockwall and the city council for the last four years,” he said. “The city of Rockwall has some of the most exemplary staff possible and it has been a pleasure working with them. Rockwall is truly the best place on earth.”

“The most recent Republican primary run-off election has provided me an opportunity to serve the citizens of Rockwall as justice of the peace in Precinct 3. It is now with a heavy heart that I submit my resignation effective Tuesday, September 18, 2012. This is to ensure that there will be time to name a suitable replacement. Again, it has been an honor to serve the citizens of Rockwall and I look forward to serving you guys in the future in my newest capacity, humbly and dutifully.”