Mendoza expected to resign from Livingston City Council

David Mendoza is expected to resign Tuesday from the Livingston City Council, according to the council’s agenda posted Monday.

Mendoza did not return phone calls and an email seeking comment.

Mayor Pro Tem Gurpal Samra confirmed that the council will discuss Mendoza’s planned resignation and formulate a plan for replacing him.

Samra also said he would be willing to consider the possibility of allowing Mendoza to step away from the council temporarily with the idea that he would return at a later date.

“We’ll have to consider all the options and speak with the (city’s) attorney, but Councilman Mendoza is a good man, and he’s done a lot to advance the city,” Samra said.

Samra said Mendoza notified the council and city staff members that he has moved outside the city limit, which would prevent him from serving on the council.

“He did exactly what he’s supposed to do when that happens and contacted the city about it immediately,” Samra said.

Samra declined to comment on why Mendoza moved, saying it would be up to the outgoing councilman whether he commented “on something that’s his personal business.”

It was unclear Monday exactly what the council would do to fill Mendoza’s vacancy.

Interim City Manager Odi Ortiz did not return phone calls seeking comment.

Mendoza was elected to the council in 2012, along with Councilmen Jim Soria and Arturo Sicairos.

Samra said it would be unfortunate if Mendoza’s resignation became permanent. “He’s done a lot for the city, but sometimes our personal lives can get in the way of the service,” Samra said.

The public meeting is scheduled to begin at 7:45 p.m. at the City Council chamber, 1416 C St., in Livingston.

This story was originally published May 4, 2015 at 6:23 PM with the headline "Mendoza expected to resign from Livingston City Council."