Gary R. Smith, a member of the seven-member board of commissioners which oversees the operations of Olympic Medical Center, has resigned, effective May 31.
Smith, a computer technician, was elected to a six-year term on the board in 2005. A replacement will be named by the commissioners, and an election will be called to fill the remaining two years of Smith’s term.
In a statement issued late today (Friday), the board said it had “approved three months of excused absences for Mr. Smith effective March 4, 2009, as he took a temporary position out of the country.
“His position has been extended for several more months, and he will be unable to return to Port Angeles prior to the three month timeframe ending June 4.
“Mr. Smith has therefore reluctantly submitted his resignation.
“Smith states, ‘Reluctantly and sadly I must ask you to accept my resignation effective May 31, 2009.
“‘This was not an easy decision for me. It has truly been an honor and privilege to serve the hospital and my community, but circumstances prevent me from returning in as timely a way as I had first hoped when I asked to be excused from the meeting requirement.
“‘While I could continue to attend some meetings via phone, the community needs and deserves a full time board member. I have many fond memories of OMC and, I hope to serve again upon my return.'”
It is the second recent resignation from the board.
Earlier this month, John Nutter, a Port Angeles police officer and former OMC finance director, was sworn in to replace Cindy Witham, who resigned on March 4. She was also elected in 2005.
Nutter said he intends to run for election to complete the final two years of Witham’s term.
