Byron Shire Councillor, Asren Pugh, who is serving his second term on Council, this week announced he was resigning from 13 March 2026.
'I want to thank the community for their support, the Council staff for their tireless work, and my fellow Councillors for their service," Councillor Pugh said.
"I am proud of the progress we have made during my time on Council," he said.
"I'm particularly proud of being instrumental in changing Council's position to supporting the Rail Trail, embedding Aboriginal housing on Country into Council policy and it has been my privilege to be able to represent my home village of Bangalow.
'However, with my business and other projects I cannot dedicate the time I think is required to the work of Council and representing the community effectively.
"While I would have liked to stay on council longer, if I leave after 14 March there would need to be a by-election, and I will not impose this cost on the community because there are better ways to spend Council's limited funds.
"I leave knowing that our Shire is passionate and engaged, and I trust my colleagues, including my replacement, will continue to work hard for our region.
"Council often gets a bad rap and a lot of criticism from the community, but I want to acknowledge the amazing staff who work under sometimes very difficult circumstances trying to deliver real, practical and transformative outcomes with limited power and limited budgets," he said.
Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, thanked Councillor Pugh for his work and advocacy on behalf of the community.
"Asren has made a significant contribution to Council and the community," Mayor Ndiaye said.
"He has shown real dedication and care in working to achieve the best outcomes for our community, particularly for Bangalow.
"On behalf of Councillors and staff, I thank him sincerely and wish him all the very best for the future," Mayor Ndiaye said.
Because it is less than 18 months since the last election a new Councillor will be selected from a countback of votes from the people who ran in the last election and remain eligible and willing to accept the position.
This process is managed by the NSW Electoral Commission which will notify Council with the outcome.
