By Marina Giovannelli
Wilmington, NC – Wilmington city council member Jason Thompson submitted his resignation letter Thursday. It will take effect the day before he is sworn in as a New Hanover County Commissioner.
During Wednesday's council meeting, Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo thanked Thompson for eight years of service on the council.
Looking back on his two terms, Thompson says he's particularly proud of having introducing a code of ethics for council. And he acknowledges being a controversial figure.
"Well, I'm a bit of a maverick because I question the status quo. And even in my own party, I'm the black sheep of the republicans. I know that, and I don't mind it. I'm not a yes man to any body, any party, any organization. And if you don't like it, that's fine too," says Thompson.
Residents interested in filling Thompson's seat have 12 days to submit an application, starting Thursday. Each applicant will address council at the next meeting. Council will then take a vote to appoint Wilmington's next city council member.