Stu Martinez, the first mayor to hold office in the newly formed city of La Pine, announced in a letter that he will step down from his post on August 28 to pursue personal interests as he continues to battle cancer.
Martinez has been in the position for two years, and was appointed by La Pine city council members, much like Bend’s system for selecting a mayor, rather than being elected by local voters. Councilors plan to hold a work session with La Pine’s city attorney before the next council meeting on Aug. 27 and will discuss filling the vacant position.
City Councilor Ginny Woodruff is reported to be interested in becoming the second mayor of La Pine and serve out the remainder of Martinez’s term ending in January 2009.
