MASSILLON – Jim Johnson may have had one of the shortest runs as a councilman in the city’s history.
Johnson, who was appointed Jan. 17 by the Stark County Democratic Party to City Council , is resigning his at-large post on Wednesday due to a personal health care coverage issue.
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Johnson, a former Massillon code-enforcement officer and interim safety-service director, found out this week he would be unable continue with his retiree health benefits via the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System as a member of City Council.
“I sought this position with the full intention of serving our great community as an active, dedicated member of City Council,” Johnson wrote in a letter dated Tuesday to Council President Mike Slater. “As it is critical I maintain my healthcare coverage, it is with great regret I tender my resignation as a member of Massillon City Council.”
Massillon does not offer its City Council members health care benefits.