BEDFORD — Bedford City Councilman At Large Dan Bortner announced he will resign his council seat at the end of August after accepting the position of CEO of the Lawrence County Economic Growth Council and Bedford Chamber of Commerce.
Bortner, who is in the middle of his second term on the council, said his decision was guided by a potential conflict of interest. While state law does not prohibit him from holding both roles, Bortner said it would be inappropriate to remain in an elected office with influence over funding for an organization he now leads.
“My serving both organizations is not a legal issue, but I feel it is a conflict of interest,” Bortner said in a statement. “As such, I will be resigning my position on the Bedford City Council effective Aug. 31, 2025.”
Bortner said he was grateful for the opportunity to represent Bedford residents. “It has been an honor to serve, and I thank everyone who had confidence in me to do so,” he said. “I do not know what the future holds as far as elected office, but for now this is the right course to take.”
Bortner pledged to continue serving the community through his new role. “God bless this wonderful community,” he said.
