Former Stayton Mayor Brian Quigley has resigned as of Tuesday after a life-threatening medical emergency, saying he needs to focus on his health.
Quigley submitted his resignation verbally that day to the Stayton City Council and City Manager Julia Hajduk.
When speaking with Our Town Wednesday, Quigley did not name the condition on the record. He said he was life-flighted from Stayton to Portland and remained hospitalized for several days.
Quigley said he “will be fine” and needs to focus on “getting my energy back.”
“I really hate to [resign], but in this current position in my life I need to focus on my health before anything else,” said Quigley.
City Council President Steve Sims will assume the duties of mayor until the council appoints someone to the remainder of Quigley’s term, which expires at the end of 2026.
Sims said he has spoken with Hajduk about the appointment process and said Hajduk will set up a workgroup to discuss next steps.
Sims told Our Town it was unfortunate Quigley encountered serious health issues and he will miss having the former mayor around.
“[Quigley’s] been such a great mayor and he cares so much about this town,” said Sims. “It’s sad to see him resign because he’s done such an amazing job.”
Before becoming mayor in 2023, Quigley served on the council from 2011 to 2019. He resigned suddenly from the council for health reasons, and said his recent condition was unrelated.
