John Saywell resigns as mayor of Grenville-sur-la-Rouge

In a move that left everyone surprised around the council table, Grenville-sur-la-Rouge Mayor John Saywell resigned from his post effective immediately during a council meeting held Tuesday, September 11.

Tensions between Saywell and several councillors have been mounting for well over a year now. Many said the constant and mounting friction between the mayor and councillors Noël Baril, Pierre Lessard, Alain Carrière et Diane Monette were just too much for Saywell to endure.

During the meeting, the agenda was adopted and Saywell read his report, which included his letter of resignation. Those present at the meeting said Saywell was "obviously emotional."

Even Saywell's supporters admitted they had no idea the mayor was planning to step down.

Those present at the meeting said Saywell made a "courageous decision" and noted he was calm and collected while announcing his resignation.

In the past three years, Grenville-sur-la-Rouge has had two mayors and two director general's. Monette will assume the role of interim mayor.