Pontiac Mayor Bob Russell during an interview with WJEZ/WJEZ file photo

By Neil Doyle

PONTIAC – The mayor of Pontiac has announced his resignation.

Bob Russell informed the city council of his decision at Monday night’s meeting. He’ll step down as mayor starting July 31.

“Having served as mayor of the city of Pontiac for the past 10 plus years has been an unbelievably wonderful experience that I will never forget,” said Russell in his letter of resignation.

Russell, who has been mayor since 2009, told WJEZ’s Todd Wineburner that he didn’t serve in the position for the money.

“This is something you do because you love the community. The people in this community work together so well and what I’ve seen happen here in the last 10-15 years is nothing short of a miracle,” said Russell.

In his letter of resignation, Russell said he is proud of the business development around the city. He also notes the development of the Route 66 phenomena that brings people from all over to visit Pontiac.

Prior to becoming mayor, Russell served as a city council alderman for 17 years.

The city council will have 60 days to name a new mayor.