Ussery stepping down as Republic mayor; Russell to assume role

Cites new responsibilities in career, time with family as reasons for resignation after four years
 
Jeff Ussery announced on Tuesday, July 14, that he would be resigning as mayor of Republic. Ussery’s last day as mayor was Tuesday, July 21; Mayor Pro-Tem Matt Russell will fill in as the city’s mayor until a special election can be held.
Ussery said he considered his resignation for several weeks before announcing it, adding that he has taken on new duties at work that requires more of his time.
“My new role adds responsibilities and includes more of a time commitment,” he said.
Additionally, Ussery said he considered the needs of his family, whom he said supported his decision, as well as the members of the city council.
“Some of them were actually sad to see me go, which is always a nice feeling.”
Members of the public, Ussery said, are also supportive of his decision.
“Everyone I have spoken to or has commented on Facebook has been overly supportive,” he said. “I think our citizens know that we volunteer for public service. While I still believe it is a noble calling, we must always have a keen focus on our family and career.”
Asked if he would consider a return to politics in the future, Ussery said he “didn’t see that happening.”
 “Of course, you never know what the future holds, but that is currently not something I am considering,” he said.
Russell to take over
Ussery also said that Republic would be in good hands with Matt Russell at the helm.
“I think Matt has a good heart and loves the city of Republic,” Ussery said. “He has an attention to detail that will benefit him as he steps into this role.”
As mayor, Ussery said while he is proud of what the city has accomplished since his election in 2017.
“I have spent most of my life living in Republic,” he said. “I have always had pride in this city and its citizens. I have been so blessed to serve as the mayor of the town I’ve grown up in. I know we have done some great things that will have lasting impacts on the future of Republic and the quality of life provided to the citizens.”
Ussery also praised the city’s employees, stating they are the ones who are truly responsible for the city’s progress.
“As the Mayor, you get the credit and blame for everything that happens in the city, whether you earned it or not. But truly, the credit for what is happening in the city goes to the hard-working men and women that work for the city of Republic. Everyone from the bottom to the top works hard every day to live by our values and we should be proud to have them. We also have the best city administrator we could ever hope to have, and a council that cares about the work they do. I am so appreciative of the opportunity I had to serve with each of them and look forward to watching Republic’s future success.”
The full text of Ussery’s resignation announcement is below:
“Over the last several weeks, I have been struggling with a decision. I have taken on a new role within my career that has required more and more of a time commitment which could affect my ability to attend meetings regularly. While I have absolutely loved serving as your Mayor, I have to consider the time constraints I have in life currently and the effect that has on my family. I have made the decision to step down as Mayor. As much as I love serving in this part-time capacity, I have to focus on my family and my full-time career. I feel proud of what we have accomplished since 2017 and also confident in the ability of the staff and council to keep it going. Republic is my home and I love it along with the people I have had an opportunity to serve.
“But there comes a time when we all must reflect on the margin we have in life. We only live once and our children deserve all we can give them. My wife would definitely tell you I have a really hard time saying ‘no’ when someone asks me to serve in any capacity. But service to my family comes first and foremost. Thank you for letting me serve you for the last several years. #RepMoProud”