Councilwoman Hill to leave office

During Tuesday's city council meeting, Councilwoman Becky Hill plans on disclosing the details and timing of her decision to leave office.

"My husband (Chris Hill) and I are moving to another state," Hill said. "It was a decision based on the economic turndown. We both work on commissions and we need to be able to have employment that sustains a living."

She said an opportunity of employment presented itself, and although it was a difficult decision it was one that had to be made.

"We have been looking at different avenues to try and stay in the area but nothing worked out," said the councilwoman, who is currently serving her third term on the city council.

When Hill's mother, City Councilwoman Betty Pryatel, passed away in 2002, Hill was appointed to fill the remaining nine months of the term.

With the completion of that term, Hill ran for, and was elected to two consecutive terms.

"While I am glad about this new start," Hill said, "I am saddened by the fact I will be leaving a place I have lived since I was 9 years-old. A place I have poured by heart and soul into."

She feels there is still much more to be done at the city level but realizes that will always be the case.

"I have been committed and passionate about my work for the city and the staff I have worked with. The staff and the League of California Cities has taken me in and taught me how to be a good leader," Hill stated. "In fact I had planned on running for mayor when the seat went up for election."

With Hill's council seat becoming vacant, it will be up to the city council to decide whether to appoint a new councilperson or hold a special election.

"I believe they will appoint someone as running a special election is expensive," Hill said. "They will probably make that decision during the February 23 meeting."

Councilman Ross Turner said that as soon has Hill's upcoming vacancy hit the rumor mill, "different factions in the community were beating the bush" to find a worthy candidate.

If the council chooses to go the appoint route interested people who live within city limits can apply to the position. The city will go through a process not unlike a hiring process, and then the final decision will be left up to the city council, according to Hill.