Long-time Danielsville council member resigns

“I will continue my term until the end of December 2008, then you may appoint someone to serve in my seat until an election can be held,” wrote Watson in his resignation letter, which Mayor Glenn Cross read at the end of Monday night’s council meeting.

Watson said the city is in “dire financial straits” and that he will donate his pay for November and December to the city.

“The only reason I ran this term was to see the new well completed and our sewer system expanded, even though these tasks may not be completed,” wrote Watson. “The money is slipping away and needless to say, I am very disappointed. I know we have been very successful getting new business in the city, but there has also been disappointment.”

Danielsville leaders have been trying to get city finances in order since the arrest of former city clerk Michelle Dills, who allegedly stole thousands of dollars from the city. The investigation of exactly how much money was stolen has yet to be completed.

While the theft case has been a cause of many heartaches and headaches for city leaders, Watson said he is proud of what the council accomplished over the past decade.

“I am proud of the fact that in 11 years we did not raise taxes and only raised water rates once,” wrote Watson, who said he will be living in Helen for at least six months or longer in 2009. “I truly hope for the best for the city of Danielsville and its council members. I would like to thank the city employees for doing an outstanding job during adverse conditions.”