The city of Ketchum announced Thursday that Councilman Ron Parsons would be resigning, effective immediately.
A press release from the city stated that Parsons cited "health issues that are interfering with his ability to serve on the council."
"I have some issues to deal with, but it's all surely manageable," Parsons said in an interview on Thursday. "I will be fine, but there's just a point where you have to get your body and mind straight."
Parsons said that he was sad to step down with big decisions coming in front of the council, but that it was a necessary move.
Parsons served on the Planning and Zoning Commission from 2004 to 2006 and was subsequently appointed to the council to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Chris Potters.
He retained the seat with a successful campaign in 2007.
"This is a great loss for us. Ron has brought a breadth of experience, common sense and humor to the council," Mayor Randy Hall said in a prepared statement. "He will not be easily replaced."
As required by Idaho code, a vacancy on the council is filled by a nomination of a candidate by the mayor and a confirmation from a majority of the council.
In addition to his time in City Hall, Parsons had plenty of experience with the city, working full-time for the Ketchum Fire Department for 24 years and as a volunteer for an additional three.
Parsons was one of the first Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians in the department and was highly involved in the creation of the Sawtooth-Wood River EMS Association, which created the first paramedic program in 2000.
He has been a member of the Sun Valley Ski Patrol since 1979.
"It has been an honor working with Ron," said Councilman Curtis Kemp. "His contributions have been huge, and his special insights irreplaceable."
