Roshia to resign from Watertown City Council

WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWNY) - After serving a year of his first term, Watertown City Council member Jesse Roshia announced he is resigning from his office at Monday night’s council meeting.

Roshia read a statement, detailing how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted his day-to-day life. He said it’s led to a change in his job, the sale of his family’s home, and a need to travel to Syracuse for work every day.

Roshia told lawmakers the pandemic has made it hard for him to devote time to his other obligations.

“I no longer feel I can put the time and effort into the position that our taxpayers deserve, while managing the ever important role of husband and father to my wife Tara, and my children, Adrian and Michael,” Roshia said at Monday night’s meeting. “While my decision will be rightfully disappointing to some, please know that it is one that has caused considerable anguish to me and my family.”

Roshia’s resignation is effective January 31st.

Mayor Jeff Smith told Roshia at tonight’s meeting, “It’s been an honor to get to know you, a privilege to work and serve with you, and certainly you brought a perspective to the council that was extremely insightful, thoughtful, and the community will miss you. This council and city staff will definitely miss you.”

Roshia first took office in January of 2020, after winning election in November of 2019.

City Council will now be tasked with appointing someone to fill Roshia’s vacancy in 2021, while a special election will be held in November to elect a two-year term council member.

As for the appointment, Mayor Smith says council will be accepting resumes and letters of intent through the month, with more details to follow in the next day or so.

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