Littleton City Council Member Announces Resignation

LITTLETON, CO — Littleton City Council Member Karina Elrod is stepping down, the city announced Friday. Elrod submitted a letter of resignation to the city, which takes effect Sunday.

Elrod and her family are moving to Europe, the city said.

"I am extremely grateful to our citizens, business community, fellow council members and city staff, having entrusted me in this role for the past 3 1/2 years," Elrod said in a statement.

"While my service is cut short, I am proud of the pivotal work that has been accomplished during my tenure on council from the Comprehensive Plan and Transportation Master Plan, to the citizen led Arts & Culture Commission and Transportation and Mobility Board," her statement read.

"Planting the seeds for a future Littleton is a responsibility we all have in this role. I can not only look back at what was accomplished but also look forward to what will come. A special thanks to my husband and kids for their support along the way and I look forward to a new adventure abroad as a family," she said.

Elrod was elected to a 4-year, at large seat on the City Council in November, 2017. Her term was set to expire in November.

"As required by the charter, within 30 days of the effective date, the city council will appoint a resident to fill the remainder of Elrod's term," the city said in a news release.

"Citizens interested in seeking appointment can send a letter of interest and resume to City Clerk Colleen Norton at cccn@littletongov.org by May 17 at 5 p.m. Interviews will take place beginning May 19. For further information about the vacancy, call Colleen Norton at 303-795-3780."

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During her time as a City Council member, Elrod served on the Denver Regional Council of Governments Board, the Arapahoe Transportation Forum and in the South Metro Chamber of Commerce.

"After many years focusing on building her career in international business, Elrod recognized the value of being engaged and present in the community," the city's news release read.

"She served as chair of the Planning Commission, a member of the LIFT urban renewal board, and volunteered as a curator for the Stanton Gallery at the Town Hall Arts Center. She spearheaded the effort to create the Arts & Culture Commission which recently adopted its strategic plan and led the city council to adopt Arts, Culture and Tourism as one of its goals for the next two years."

Littleton City Manager Mark Relph said Elrod dedicated herself to improving the city.

"It is with both sadness and appreciation that we say a fond farewell to Karina and her family," Relph said in a statement.

"Karina has given so much of her time and talent to leave Littleton a better place and for that we are grateful. We wish Karina all the best on her family's new adventure."