First Ward Dowagiac City Councilman Junior Oliver announced Wednesday that he resigned effective July 12 due to his wife’s health.

“With the time consumed by me being her caregiver, I can’t effectively serve the citizens of our great city in the manner they deserve,” said Oliver in an e-mail. He was appointed to the council  Dec. 7, 2009.

“I love the city and its people. I see a bright future for the city. This is a time when a councilperson should give 110 percent while the city transitions into the future with fresh thoughts and ideas to excel in the areas of service and information technologies,” Oliver stated.

“It has been a wonderful experience to work with all the city administration over the past 19 months. All are very good at their jobs and helpful in every way possible. I wish my replacement the very best in their position. My resignation is effective July 12, 2011. I will still be doing the online economic development research as I have for the past three years, reporting to Cindy LaGrow.”

Anyone from First Ward who is interested in this position should contact City Hall at (269) 782-2195.

City Clerk Jim Snow hadn’t received formal notification, but the council would have 30 days to fill the vacancy.

Filing deadline for the Nov. 8 election is Aug. 16. Oliver’s term is ending and is up for re-election.