Former Banks City Council member Don Gianetti resigned Tuesday morning for personal, primarily work-related reasons, he said in a resignation letter obtained in a public records request by the Banks Post.
“It is with sincere gratitude and a heavy heart that I submit my resignation as City Councilor for the City of Banks,” Giannetti wrote. He said his resignation was effective immediately.
“This was not an easy decision, and I regret having to step away from a role I have truly valued,” Giannetti said in the letter, which he emailed to Banks City Recorder Angie Lanter and addressed to Banks Mayor Marsha Kirk, city staff, and his fellow councilors. “But I believe it is the best choice given my current circumstances, and I am confident that the Council will continue to move forward with integrity, strength, and vision,” he added.
Gianetti sent the letter just after 10:30 a.m., ahead of that evening’s scheduled executive session, work session and regular council meeting.
“Serving the City of Banks has been a tremendous honor, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated individuals in service to our community,” Giannetti said.
Giannetti did not respond to two emailed requests for comment sent Tuesday and Thursday.
“However, due to personal reasons—primarily the increasing demands of my work—I find myself unable to devote the time and energy that the City and its citizens rightfully deserve,” he added.
The Banks City Council formally vacated his seat during a city council meeting Tuesday, and the city will soon issue instructions to residents who wish to seek appointment to fill the remainder of his term, which expires Dec. 31, 2028.
In an email to the Banks Post, City Recorder and Assistant City Manager Angie Lanter said the city planned to establish an application and interview timeline “hopefully within the next 2 weeks.”
In a response to Giannetti’s resignation letter, Banks Mayor Marsha Kirk said she was saddened to hear of his resignation.
“I do totally understand your decision and support you,” Kirk said. “Family first,” the mayor added.
“Once things settle down, feel free to think about running again or volunteering in another role. You will be sorely missed,” Kirk said.
In addition to a vacant seat on the city council that must now be filled by appointment, the city hosts several boards and commissions with vacant seats.
Several positions are open:
- Budget Committee: Five open positions
- Economic Development Commission: Two open positions
- Park, Recreation & Tree Board: One open position
Chas Hundley is the editor of the Banks Post and sister news publications the Gales Creek Journal and the Salmonberry Magazine. He grew up in Gales Creek and has a cat.
