A Severn Township councillor is moving on and moving out.
Ward 3 Coun. John Betsworth has tendered his resignation and will be relocating somewhere outside of Severn, the township announced Thursday in a news release.
Betsworth joined council in June 2016, when he was appointed. He was then elected in October 2018.
He has been a resident of Severn for 26 years and resided in Ward 3 for 16 of those years, “bringing a wealth of knowledge to his position on council with his 30 years of business management experience,” the release noted.
“During his term as councillor, he has served on numerous boards and committees, and has been a strong voice for the environment, infrastructure improvements, and an advocate for community health and well-being.”
Betsworth urged others in the community to consider running for council.
“It has been an honour to represent the citizens of Severn and I would encourage other members of the community to consider a seat on council, either in response to this vacancy or in the upcoming October municipal election,” he said.
The township will fill the vacancy by appointment because of timing, with the municipal election set for Oct. 24.
Details about the vacancy will be on the township’s website May 5.
"On behalf of council and staff, I would like to thank Coun. Betsworth for his service and dedication to the Severn community and extend my best wishes to him and his family in this new chapter," said Mayor Mike Burkett.
