Council accepts Councilor Mertzuk’s resignation from appointed committees after heated debate

The Superior City Council voted 6–3 to accept Councilor Mertzuk’s resignation from his appointed council committees after a lengthy debate over military obligations and expectations for committee attendance.

Council discussion divided sharply. Councilor McKenzie said he understood Mertzuk’s military commitments and urged respect for veterans’ service. Councilor Gallenbeck disputed the resignation, saying, "I disagree 100%. I think mister Mertzik should not resign from his committee meetings." Mertzuk explained his position and described the difference between federal military obligations and civilian service: "The difference between my military service and the city council is if I don't show up for the military, I go to prison. If I don't show up for the city council, I call missus Kalan and say, excuse me for this month." He also said he had discussed compensation adjustments for missed committee work.

The motion to accept the resignation was moved on the floor (motion recorded as moved by Mr. Mercik and seconded by Mr. Bender in the meeting record). Council conducted a roll‑call vote; the clerk announced the motion passed 6 to 3. Council directed that revised committee assignments be submitted to the clerk's office and placed on the next council agenda.

Councilors on both sides stressed respect for military service while also expressing that committee work is an obligation to constituents. Several councilors urged Mertzuk to remain involved when available; Mertzuk said he would "fulfill those obligations one way or the other" depending on the council’s decision.