Angela Plassmann has just issued this press release:
Due to recent city actions that have had a profound negative impact on my family, I have decided to tender my resignation from the position of Ward 3 City Councilor effective immediately. My family and I have come under harassment from a department head for the City of Northampton. I have been “singled out” due to what I believe are political motivations. In as much as civil or criminal litigation may be forthcoming between me and/or my family and the City of Northampton, I believe it is inappropriate for me to continue serving on the City Council.
I want to take a moment to thank the residents of Ward 3 who have put their faith and trust in me to represent them as their City Councilor. I ran for the position in hopes of affecting positive changes in our local government in a transparent and approachable manner. While some of my constituents may have disagreed with my positions on various matters, I have striven publicly and privately to be honest and have voted accordingly. I have done my best to avail myself to all, even responding to residents from other wards. The effort to balance my personal life with City Council and a full-time career has been strenuous but by no means impossible. I believe that I have served Ward 3 well.
It has been an honor for me to work with my constituents. During my work for Ward 3, I have met remarkable individuals and have formed friendships and developed understandings that I will cherish for years. I would like to give a special thank you to my loving and supportive husband, son and mother. From day one, they have encouraged me to stick to my convictions and stand up for those things that are not popular to talk about. In the end, I have kept my integrity.
I’d like to thank the residents at the Walter Salvo House and the Cahill Apartments and all the other passionate individuals who stopped me while grocery shopping, called me or shared with me along the way. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for your pride in your convictions and for giving me the opportunity to listen and to serve you. You all kept me going.
In closing, I am honored to have earned the confidence of the electorate to serve on the City Council. Everything aside, it has truly been a privilege to serve. My intention has been to make our community a better place for all. I offer sincere apologies to those who are disappointed with either my service or my resignation. At this time, I am asking for privacy for me and my family and will not have any other comments to share.
My best wishes to the residents of the City of Northampton.
See also:
Gazette: “Plassmann, citing harassment, resigns from Ward 3 council seat in Northampton” (4/8/11)