Mr. Troy said the current council’s situation, including the recent Supreme Court battle, had “revved up his stress levels” and he quit on medical advice.

Mr. Troy is one of seven councillors facing a hefty legal bill following the court proceedings that were initiated by Mayor Alison Davey in March, after the group tried to oust general manager Lea Rosser.

“The stress of the job is the main reason, but the issues in council are only exacerbating that,” Mr. Troy said. But the majority of his eight-and-a-half years on council had been a pleasure, he added.

“It’s a bit sad to bow out this way, but you’ve got to realise when it’s time to stop, when it’s affecting your health and your family’s health.”

Mr. Troy said the timing was right as a by-election won’t have to be held, because council enters caretaker mode next month in the lead-up to the September 8 election.

Mr. Troy was to head the Liberals’ Ward B ticket for the election. A new candidate will be announced soon and Mr. Troy wishes them all the best.

“Hopefully they will take up the job with the passion I used to have,” Cr. Troy said.

“Whoever gets it will do a fantastic job.”