The councillor in charge of Luton Borough Council’s finances has resigned, weeks before the budget is due.
Labour Councillor Robin Harris handed in his notice at the start of the week.
The Farley ward councillor and portfolio holder for finance is a member of the counncil’s executive committee and was first elected in May 1995.
A Luton council spokesperson said: “We can confirm that Cllr Harris tendered his resignation as a member of the council at the start of this week. Consistent with statutory requirements, his resignation was accepted with immediate effect and a ‘notice of casual vacancy in the office of councillor’ in the Farley ward displayed on the Town Hall noticeboard and on the council’s website.”
A finance update and budget report is expected at the next meeting of the Scrutiny Finance Review Group on January 29.
Cllr Harris’ resignation as a member of the council also causes him to resign his position as a director of London Luton Airport Ltd.
The board will consider the appointment of a chair and, in discussion with the shareholder, will seek to appoint a new director in the course of its business.
Mr Harris was one of three members representing the Farley ward.
A by-election will be called in the event that it is requested by two members of the electorate.
Earlier thsi month, Labour member Councillor Naseem Ayub was suspended by her party but continues to fulfil council duties including being part of the executive committee.
Her husband Councillor Mohammad Ayub was also suspended from the Labour party.
They are both being investigated over allegations of comments made on Facebook.