Mark Philpot

Citing family health issues, Wellman City Council member Mark Philpot will be stepping down from his seat at the end of next month.

Philpot made the announcement at the end of Monday night’s council meeting.

“My parents have been terribly ill, and just recently, my sister who has lupus, her condition has worsened,” Philpot said. “She’s been the glue that’s been holding my parents’ care together.

“It’s come to a head, unfortunately, that it will necessitate me resigning from council and taking a more active role in the care of my family.”

Philpot said he will be leaving town around July 1 to be with his family in the suburbs of Chicago and that his resignation will be effective July 1.

“I will be fully able to participate in council activity and service and act as a representative up until that time,” he said. “If things change, I will reach out to the mayor and everybody else and keep you in the loop.”

He added that he made the announcement early to give the council ample time to seek someone to appoint to serve out his term.

“I want to give the town the opportunity to have some time to seek out other candidates for an appointment to be able to fill that position when I’m no longer in town,” he said.

Philpot was first elected to the Wellman council in November 2017, taking his seat in January 2018. His term ends at the end of 2021.

“I appreciate everything you’ve done with your time on council,” Mayor Ryan Miller said. “I’m sorry to see you have to step back, but I certainly do appreciate it. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.”