The following letter was submitted to Pittsburgh City Council on Nov. 13, 2007. It appears here exactly as it was written.

Dear Colleagues,

Effective immediately, I am resigning as a member of Pittsburgh City Council representing District #9. I have enjoyed my service to our city and its residents.

I also would like to thank members of council for their support and friendship over the years.

As you are aware shortly you will begin budget hearings and I feel it is extremely important to keep the focus on the issues of the 2008 budget, this is why I feel it necessary to step aside and let the work of city government take place.

Also, I am sure you are aware that through court proceedings my city salary has been frozen leaving me with no income and financially stress. As much as I love working for the residents in the city of Pittsburgh I can not afford to continue to volunteer my services.

In closing, I would like to thank my staff members and our city clerk staff for all of their professional work on my behalf and that of the city of Pittsburgh. Lastly, and most importantly I would like to thank the residents of council district #9 and the city of Pittsburgh for working with me. I ask for your continued prayers and support through this challenging time in my life.

Sincerely,
Twanda Carlisle