Ledyard — A member of the Town Council has resigned.

Republican Thomas Malone, in an email read during Wednesday night's remote meeting, said, "being on the Town Council has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. It has been my honor and privilege to serve with a group of people that have the highest level of honor, integrity, and moral character."

The email didn't state a reason for why he was stepping down. He didn't return phone calls seeking comment.

Malone has served a number of years on the council and, previously, on the Board of Education. He served on the council's Finance Committee, having just completed work on the 2021-22 budget plan up for a referendum next week. The Finance Committee chairman, Town Councilor William Saums, said Malone was especially helpful in dealing with budget items involving emergency service departments.

"He has a lot of experience in those areas. He knows the equipment that is used, and knows the business," Saums said.

Town Council Chairwoman Linda Davis said Malone was considering not running for another term two years ago, but did and won. "It's not unusual to resign at this time of year, if you're considering it," she said. "He's done the heavy lifting (with the budget being put together), and now it's his decision to move on."

She said being on the Finance Committee is probably the most difficult job on the council. "That's the committee that meets the most often," she said. "They meet at least twice a month, and once a week during the budget season."

Ledyard's Republican Town Committee will recommend a replacement for the remaining months of Malone's term. Davis said that person will be interviewed by the Town Council next Wednesday, and could be named to fill the vacancy that night, in time for the council's next scheduled meeting on May 26.

Davis added, "We really appreciate Tom's service. We wish him well. We'll certainly miss him."