Causby announces retirement from Shelby City Council

From our news partner The Shelby Independent - www.shelbyindependent.com

In what seemed like an unexpected shock to some, City Council Member David Causby, 76, - Ward 3, announced he was stepping down from his position as an elected member of the Shelby City Council. His term does not expire until December 2027.

Causby made the announcement at the end of the meeting, right before council went into closed session.

"This is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do," Causby said, standing to address the council and the audience from his city council seat. "I'm 76 years old; I've reached a decision satisfactory to myself. It is time that I retire from the Shelby City Council. I didn't realize how old I was getting this fast."

Causby continued, "The truth is, I'm just tired. I have thoroughly enjoyed serving the community for these 10 years, but feel that I am leaving the city in good hands. In closing I will just wish you all the best. God bless the City of Shelby, God bless this council, good luck and good night."

His statement was met with applause for his service.

"Causby, thank you for those remarks and we will miss you," said Mayor Stan Anthony.

"I know it was a tough decision and we're all getting old," added Council Member David White, somberly - Ward 2. "I appreciate you; it's hard to hear, but I understand your rationale and I appreciate that."

White also noted, "He's been a friend of mine for forty years, it seems. He's one of my best friends, and we're really going to miss him. In the time he's been here, he has done so much."

White acknowledged, with a bit of levity, Causby stepping down, now makes him the oldest person on the city council, which garnered a room full of laughter.

Council Member Charles Webber - Ward 5, said, "I'm surprised at the announcement... Mr. Causby has been a friend to me during my time on the council."

"I've known you for 25 or 30 years and you have been a rock and a cheerleader and just an actually fantastic person, who's heart was always absolutely in this city," said Council Member Violet Arth - Ward 4. "You have done wonderful things. We adore you and I won't say you'll be missed because we will still see you, but you will be missed here (on the council)."

According to his bio on the City of Shelby's website, Causby was educated through the Shelby school system and Wake Forest University. Mr. Causby became the Senior Sales Representative for Bassett Furniture Industries of Bassett, Virginia in North Carolina for nearly 30 years.  He left only to become the National Sales Manager for Expressions, Inc., a framed art company in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  Mr. Causby and his wife, Becca, have four children and five grandchildren. Mr. Causby has also served on various boards and commissions, federal and local through the years. 

The Shelby Independent inquired what would happen with Causby's vacant seat, to which it was stated by official sources the issue would be discussed at the next Shelby City Council meeting, scheduled for Monday, Oct. 20, at 6 p.m.