President Norman D. Griffiths Announces Stephen L. Martelli's Resignation from Wilmington City Council

Posted on  06/01/2012 5:22 pm

Wilmington City Council President Norman D. Griffiths has been presented with a letter from Stephen L. Martelli announcing his resignation, effective May 31, 2012, as Councilmember representing the 8th Councilmanic District. Council will take action at the June 7, 2012 meeting to formally accept Martelli’s resignation, thus declaring a vacancy in the 8th District of Wilmington City Council.

Martelli, who recently accepted a position as a Foreign Services Officer with the Department of State, expressed disappointment with being unable to complete his term, “Although my intent and desire was to finish out my term, it is apparent I am unable to do so,” said Martelli. “Department of State policy prohibits my involvement in local politics.” Martelli was unaware of this policy until he received a briefing from the Ethics Office.”

President Griffiths said Councilman Martelli is a public servant in the truest sense, having served his country as a U. S. Marine, and the City of Wilmington as a police officer and later as the 8th District Councilmember. Griffiths further stated, “This next chapter in Steve’s life is a direct extension and further demonstration of his commitment to public service. On behalf of the entire Council as well as the citizens of the 8th District, we thank Councilman Martelli for his service and wish him well. Wilmington’s loss is certainly a gain for the U. S Department of State.”

The process for declaring and filling vacancies on City Council is outlined in Section 2-101 the Wilmington City Charter. It states, “A vacancy occurring more than thirty (30) days prior to the date of a primary election in which city officers are nominated shall be filled in the next succeeding general election in the city.” The next scheduled general election is November 6, 2012.

In the interim, 8th District residents are encouraged to contact any of the four At-Large Council Members with constituent or other matters requiring attention. They are Council Members Michael A. Brown, Sr., Charles ‘Bud’ Freel, Loretta Walsh, and Justen A. Wright, all of whom can be reached at (302) 576-2140.