Councilman-at-large District 8 Gene Patrick submitted a letter of resignation this evening, citing ongoing health concerns. Patrick served four terms on the Arlington City Council and was recently elected to a fifth in May. The long-time community volunteer and creative show producer has suffered a number of health complications since June.

In a letter to Mayor Robert Cluck, which was read aloud during tonight's City Council meeting, Patrick states, "While I am very positive about my recovery, I have a long road ahead of me. Therefore, after much thought and discussion with Penny, I feel it is best for my recovery and the council for me to step away and let someone replace me."

Patrick enjoyed over eight years on the Arlington City Council and served on various committees including the Planning and Zoning Commission, UT Arlington Development Board and Arlington Housing Finance Corporation.

He has also served as a member of the board of directors of the American Heart Association and Arlington Convention and Visitor's Bureau, but his greatest contribution has been in the area of economic development.

"Gene is one of the original champions for downtown Arlington," said Arlington Mayor Robert Cluck. "Long before many us began to notice downtown, Gene had a vision for what could be and he never gave up on it."

In honor of his many years of service to the Arlington community, the theater arts building in downtown Arlington bears his name.

Patrick's seat will be filled during the city's next general election in May.