Speak Out: Is Councilman Wight's Hiatus Fair to City?

Updated March 14, 6:30 p.m.:

We asked the city of Lilburn regarding leaves of absence of elected officials. And, according to City Manager Bill Johnsa: "The City Charter does not address a prolonged absence or mandate regarding attendance. The City Boards and Commissions have attendance requirements that do not pertain to elected officials."

------------

A little over a year into his council post, Thomas Wight has decided it's time to take a break.

According to city spokeswoman Nikki Young, the Lilburn councilman is taking a six-month sabbatical to hike the Pacific Crest Trail. The decision was made public on March 12 in a press release.  

From April 3 to Sept. 23, Wight plans to walk the entire trail, which runs from Mexico to Canada along the crest of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

"I will be back in Lilburn on Sept. 23 and will be ready and able to fulfill my service as an elected official,"  Wight said.

Patch reached out to the city for additional comment from Wight. As of March 13, we had not heard back.

Speak Out: Should Councilman Wight be able to take a six-month break from his duties to the citizens of Lilburn, and then return to his post? Should any council person, or the mayor, be able to take such a hiatus?

Let us know your thoughts in the comment section.

See also:

• Johnny Crist Sworn in as Lilburn Mayor
• Meet the Candidates: Thomas Wight
• Attorney Wight to Run for Council

Don’t miss any Lilburn news. Subscribe to Lilburn-Mountain Park's free newsletter, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.