Marion, Va. Town Council member resigns, walks out of Monday meeting

MARION, Va. (WJHL) — A Marion Town Council member and mayoral candidate resigned from his position and walked out of a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, a spokesperson for the town told News Channel 11.

According to a town spokesperson, Jim Barker resigned his seat on the council and ended his campaign for mayor during a councilmember report segment of the meeting.

The town said Barker cited “strong differences” with other members and Town Manager Bill Rush during a prepared statement. The town council and other leaders said in a statement provided to News Channel 11 that they acknowledge Barker’s service and wish him well.

The full statement provided by the Town of Marion can be found below:

On Monday night, August 5, during the regular session of Marion Town Council, during councilmember report time, Jim Barker resigned his seat and ended his campaign for mayor after reading a prepared statement citing strong differences with council members and the town manager.  The Council and staff of the Town of Marion acknowledges Mr. Barker’s service, and wishes him well.

Town of Marion

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