Councilwoman Simank to resign

(August 19, 2008) - Ward 6 Councilwoman Ann Simank announced her resignation today from the Oklahoma City Council.

Simank’s son, Edmund Dow Simank, III, was recently accepted into Oklahoma City Fire Training Academy’s class of 2008.  When the academy begins on August 22 he will become a City employee, which requires Simank to leave her post. 

The Oklahoma City Charter states relatives of the Mayor and Council can’t be employed by the City while they are in office.

“It’s with a sad heart that I leave my Ward 6 seat, but it’s Dow’s dream to become a firefighter,” said Councilwoman Simank.  “He’s worked hard for years to get accepted into the Fire Academy.  Now that he’s passed the screening process it is in Dow’s best interest that I submit my resignation.”

Simank was elected as Ward 6 councilwoman on March 21, 1995.  Her 13-year tenure began on April 11, just eight days before the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing.

“I’ve been blessed to serve with three visionary mayors, Cornett, Humphreys and Norick, and alongside many dedicated Council members who are committed to serving this community,” said Simank.  “But it’s to the citizens of Ward 6 that I am truly grateful.  I hope to remain active in City government by serving where needed,” Simank added.

While in office, Simank worked toward improving public safety, urban development and regrowth, social services and economic growth.

Simank served as chair of the National League of Cities Public Safety and Crime Prevention Committee to develop domestic terrorism policies.  She successfully testified before Congress for better disaster training and more federal resources, enabling cities across the U.S. to better deal with disasters.

Simank worked closely with Main Street programs to make extensive improvements to Capitol Hill, Stockyards City and the Plaza District, which have contributed to significant economic development for Oklahoma City.

An advocate for the homeless, Simank served on the advisory board for Homeless Alliance and was instrumental in establishing the Mayor’s Task Force for Homelessness.

She chaired the Social Services Committee and served on the Finance Committee, Legislative Committee and Oklahoma City Council Neighborhood Conservation Committee for the City of Oklahoma City.

“Councilwoman Simank’s experience and leadership on this Council will be missed,” said Mayor Cornett.  “She worked countless nights and weekends over the past decade, meeting with citizen groups and neighborhood associations to improve both Ward 6 and the City as a whole.”

Simank’s resignation takes effect August 22.  Ward 6 residents interested in running for the vacated seat have from September 15-17 to file.  The primary is scheduled on November 4 and runoff is December 9.