Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
ALPINE — With two years still left in his term, Alpine Mayor Don Watkins has resigned to help build an entrepreneurial program at Dixie State University, he said.
"I am stepping down as mayor of Alpine city, effective immediately," Watkins said in an email to city staff Thursday night.
The former mayor said he plans to volunteer with Dixie State's School of Business.
"For many years, it has been my privilege and passion to teach and mentor students who are eager to apply basic business principles in pursuing their dreams," he said.
Watkins was first elected mayor in 1998 and served through 2002, but he didn't run for a second term. He returned to the mayor's office when he ran another successful campaign and was elected in 2014. His current term would have ended in December 2017.
Watkins said he leaves the mayor's office knowing Alpine is "in great shape."
"Alpine city is in excellent financial condition," he said. "I believe that our staff is outstanding. … The newly elected City Council has a plate full of challenges, but I trust they are equal to the task."
City leaders, Watkins said, are "more than qualified" to deal with ongoing issues, including hillside developments, annexations, ongoing lawsuits, and deer issues.
"I'm a term-limit kind of guy," Watkins said. "So I'm thinking with this great opportunity and with me serving as long as I have, it's time to get out of the way and let some great people in Alpine step up and take my place."
Alpine city administrator Rich Nelson said the City Council will meet Tuesday to begin the process of appointing a new mayor to serve the remainder of Watkins' term.
Nelson said Alpine residents interested the position can submit an application. The City Council will then conduct interviews and later vote in an open session on a new appointment.
"(Watkins) is to be thanked for his service to the city," Nelson said. "The city wishes him great success in his new endeavor."
Watkins said he and his wife will remain living in Alpine. He plans to commute to and from St. George.
"Alpine will always be our home," he said.
