BRIDGEPORT, W. Va. — Three months after being arrested on federal drug charges pertaining to the distribution of pain medication for non-legitimate medical purposes, the mayor of Bridgeport has resigned.
Before the city council conducted business during its regular meeting, Mario Blount left his seat, took the podium designated for public comment and spoke of the successes of the city since he took office.
“I am confident that Bridgeport is a better place today,” he said. “That is what I hoped to achieve when I sought to be mayor. This is what I hope will continue for our great city as I resign effective immediately.”
Blount then thanked his family in attendance and those who supported him and said he held no ill will toward any that did not support him. He also apologized to the members of council and the citizens for being unable to complete his term.
“I leave this office with the regret of not completing my term, but with gratitude for the honor and privilege of serving as your mayor for 14 months,” he said. “They have been times of achievements for our city in which we can all be proud. Achievements that represent the shared efforts of the administration of the city of Bridgeport, the city council of Bridgeport, our business partners and most of all, our citizens.”
Blount then hugged each member of council, thanking them for their service and then left.
Recorder Robert Greer assumed the role of acting mayor as the meeting proceeded. He said city leadership will meet Tuesday of next week to decide on what to do about filling the position for the remaining two years and nine months of Blount’s term.
“According to the city’s charter, the mayor’s vacancy has to be filled from the members of council,” Greer said. “So, either myself or another member of council are the only eligible persons to be elected to the mayor’s position.”
Greer also thanked the now former mayor for his time and service, stating Blount’s personal issues never interfered with city business.
“There was no allegations that had ever come forward that any of his actions related to any governmental abuse or otherwise.”
Blount faces three felony drug charges, one count of false or fraudulent material omission, one count of distribution of oxymorphone and one count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone.
He and his co-defendants April and Angela Davis were arrested on June 3.
Blount is scheduled to appear before U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keely at 11:30 a.m. on Friday to enter a plea to the charges against him.