Councilman Announces Resignation, Says Illness is to Blame

Councilman Alan Purcell announced he will step down from the council as of Friday.

Purcell made the announcement at a council meeting Wednesday night.

Purcell said illness forced him to make the “difficult” decision. Purcell has been suffering from Emphysema for years but has recently had to use a portable oxygen tank to help him breathe. He is in need of a lung transplant. He was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 2001 and survived.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a few months. I was going to do it at the last council meeting but I realized I still had a few things left to do,” Purcell said. “It was a hard decision to make but I don’t have the energy to do it anymore. I’m going to take it easy and spend more time with family.”

Purcell represents the 1st Ward. He has lobbied for officials to find a permanent solution to flooding in the Passaic River Basin. The 1st Ward almost always gets the brunt of the flooding in town.

“I’ll remember the people the most. I’ll miss them the most,” Purcell said. “It makes me feel good to give.”

Purcell received a standing ovation from everyone in the council chamber upon making the announcement.

“You have truly been a beacon of light,” said Council President Nadine Bello. “You have taught me so many things in my short time here on the council.”

Purcell was instrumental in moving the animal shelter on Pompton Plains Crossroad. He also volunteers with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Purcell’s term was due to end in 2015.

The Passaic County Regular Republican Organization will nominate three members to replace Purcell. The council will interview the three candidates and select one of them.

The appointee will serve the rest of Purcell's term this year and next year. That person may run for a one-year unexpired term in 2014 and, if he or she chooses, for a full four-year term in 2015.

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