Northwest Fire/Rescue District Governing Board member and past chairwoman Linda Christopherson resigned this week so she could move closer to her job.
Christopherson, who has served on the board since 2000, has been commuting to Phoenix for the past six years. She works as an occupational safety and health manager for US Airways.
Christopherson, 54, said the daily commute, along with other personal issues, has begun to take a toll on her health.
Also, Christopherson's job requires her to travel frequently, forcing her to either miss governing board meetings or participate in them by telephone.
She plans to move to Phoenix soon so she won't have to make a four-hour commute daily.
"I'm going to miss my role," Christopherson said. "I have enjoyed the opportunity to serve my community."
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Christopherson's background in worker safety was useful to the governing board, said board member Vince Baker.
"We're going to miss her because she's had a steady hand," he said. "She comes in with some very good knowledge."
During the board meeting Tuesday night, members stopped short of formally approving Christopherson's resignation. She plans to stay on until a replacement is found.
The board announced the opening and asked for applicants. Those applicants would be interviewed before the end of the month.
The next member could come from the district's Emergency Services Commission, Baker said.
The commission, made up of residents who provide input on the district's operation and budget, has proven to be a feeder for governing board members, he said.
Baker and Christopherson both served on the commission before joining the governing board.
