In a surprise announcement during Wednesday evening’s City Council meeting in Atlantic, City Administrator John Lund reported City Attorney Jaimie Arnold has resigned, effective immediately. Lund told reporters after the meeting that Arnold tendered his resignation Tuesday morning.

While no official explanation was given for his resignation, Lund said Arnold was planning to return to North Carolina.

Former Atlantic City Atty. Jamie Arnold

He added there would be no disruption in the City’s legal services, since Cass County Attorney David Wiederstein, who had served as the City Attorney until Arnold took over the position earlier this year, will handle the role until a replacement is found. Arnold also served as the Assistant Cass County Attorney.

The City’s Personnel and Finance Committee will begin the process of searching for a replacement. Arnold worked for the law firm of Otto, Lorence and Wiederstein. That firm will continue to be on retainer for the City in the interim.

Of Arnold, Lund said “He was a great guy, and I’m really sorry things didn’t work out.” He said there was no problem with his job performance, and there have been no complaints what-so-ever.