CLAREMONT, N.H. (AP) – Mayor Scott Pope resigned his position in the middle of a heated City Council meeting that questioned the appointment of a councilor to the city Planning Board.
Pope’s decision came suddenly, as he was being questioned by city councilors Wednesday night. It came after a debate over reconsidering the Planning Board appointment of Councilor Paul Lacasse. Some councilors said Lacasse had not properly filled out the application. The reconsideration vote failed by one vote, with the mayor voting against it.
The discussion continued about following proper procedure and included allegations of personal vendettas on the council. Pope said he didn’t like the direction the conversation was headed, announced he was resigning as mayor and walked out.
But Pope said Thursday he’s not sure where things stand.
“I’ve been told they didn’t accept my resignation by many of them,” he told WMUR-TV. “I’ll talk to the City Council to make sure everything is set. I’ve always worked hard for the city, and if they want me to keep doing it, I will certainly do it.”
The council will meet Wednesday to resolve the situation. Officials said it’s unclear whether Pope can rescind his resignation.
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