Pottsville is in need of a new Mayor after Mark Atkinson stepped down from the position on Monday night.
In an address at the end of the May City Council meeting on Monday, Atkinson cited a heart condition that he acquired as a result of his service in Iraq as the reason for his abrupt announcement.
“I’m an Iraq vet and like many of my brothers and sisters from Iraq and Afghanistan, I have Gulf War illness. Part of that is cardiac-related,” Atkinson said.
He recalled when he was first sworn in as a Councilman in 2010, taking his oath in pajama pants because he was being transported to a hospital to undergo cardiac catheterization. Atkinson said he’s undergone three of those procedures so far.
A recent stay in the hospital prompted his snap decision to resign as Mayor, Atkinson said Monday. He was just appointed to the position in November, following the resignation of former Mayor Dave Clews, also due to health reasons.
A special meeting to appoint Atkinson’s replacement has been scheduled for May 28 at 6:30 p.m. That person will serve until the end of 2025. There are currently two candidates and presumptive nominees vying for the position – current Councilman Andy Wollyung and Republican Tom Smith – in the November General Election.
“At the end of last month, I spent the better part of a week in the hospital. And this time they found something significant,” he said. “My health care providers have been telling me I need to make big changes. And I need to eliminate stress in my life.”
He said his decision to step down as Mayor was “last-minute.”
“I have a young family and I want to be there for them. And I know that sooner or later, this illness is going to kill me,” Atkinson said. “I just don’t want it to be next week.”
Atkinson concluded his statement by thanking those who served with him on City Councils and in committees. He also thanked the city’s firefighters and police officers.
“I wish nothing but the best for this city,” he said.
Councilwoman Dottie Botto said she and Atkinson “go way back” and that they’ve had their share of fights.
“I wish you the best of health. I know you have a large family with little ones. As Mayor (Jim) Muldowney always said, ‘Family first’,” Botto said.
Councilman Bill Messaros said, “I would like to thank you first for how you work for our city and how you defended our nation. Through thick and thin, you did the best for our city and our people.”
Councilman Andy Wollyung said, “Best of luck in your retirement from City Council and as Bill said, thank you for your years of service in both the military and for our city. I know both provided a lot of sleepless nights.”
“It’s been a privilege and an honor to serve with you,” Councilman Tom Wood added.
Subscribe to Coal Region Canary
Get email updates from Coal Region Canary by becoming a subscriber today. Just enter your email address below to get started!Support Coal Region Canary
Like our reporting and want to support truly local news in Schuylkill County? Your small donations help. For as little as $5, your contribution will allow us to cover more news that directly affects you. Consider donating today by hitting the big yellow button below ...