Councilman gives up seat for health reasons

Riverside councilman Dan Teaford has resigned from council, citing health reasons.

“I hate to do this, but this will be my last meeting, due to health issues,” Teaford said Thursday night. “I just cannot continue. So I am resigning as of tonight. It’s been my pleasure, working for the city, and being a council member. There’s just too many things going on with my health, and I just can’t continue.”

He thanked everyone for their “good wishes and kind thoughts.”

Riverside council said in a news release that those interested should submit a letter of interest, resume and a completed board and commission application, which is available on the city’s website.

The council said it will decide by May 31 who will be filling the seat.

Submissions can be made via email to Katie Lewallen, Clerk of Council, at klewallen@riversideoh.gov or mailed to the City of Riverside: Attention: Clerk of Council, 5200 Springfield St., Suite 100, Riverside, OH 45431. Applications must be received by May 6, and interviews will begin May 13.

Multiple members of council thanked Teaford and said they would miss working with him.

“I’m sorry to hear that you’re leaving. It’s been a joy sitting next to you,” Councilwoman April Franklin said. “I’ve enjoyed the time we’ve got to spend on council, and I wish you well and I hope that all is good for you and you’ll be missed here.”

Mayor Pete Williams said he had known Teaford for a long time as a volunteer for the city and as a councilman.

“So as much as I hate to not be able to see you sitting next to April, I’m glad that you’re able to be at home and putting your health in the place where it belongs, which is front and center,” Williams said.

Councilman Mike Denning said he tried to get Teaford to run for council for several years. He said Teaford’s health comes first, though.

“Once your health comes back and you’re ready to go, you can still run again and get back on council and help us make it better,” Denning said. “... So, take care, be well. And I definitely wish you the best.”