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NEWARK, Del. (AP) - The mayor of Newark is resigning because of stress caused by opponents of a new Wawa convenience store.
Vance Funk said in a letter sent to the city secretary and the media Tuesday that "the anti-Wawa campaign and other issues in the city" have caused his blood pressure to spike. He says he wants to live to see his grandchildren grow up.
The 70-year-old intends to step down at the end of the year. He was first elected mayor in 2004 and ran unopposed for his fourth three-year term this year.
Wawa wants to build a new store on South Main Street across from the city building, and some residents don't want to see that happen.
City Manager Carol Houck says Funk's "enthusiasm and commitment" will be missed.
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