Albert Lea Mayor Mike Murtaugh submitted an e-mail resignation Wednesday to city staff, effective at the end of the day Sunday. The city announced it Thursday in a news release.

Mike Murtaugh

The resignation comes about a week after Murtaugh announced he would not continue his campaign for re-election. In that announcement, Murtaugh asked people not to vote for him in the Nov. 2 general election, even though his name would appear on the ballot.

He said he wanted to focus on being a father to his two daughters, Erin and Tierney, after the death of his wife, Geri, Aug. 7.

Murtaugh declined to comment Thursday about the new decision but said he would agree to an interview at a later date.

Albert Lea City Attorney Lee Bjorndal said Murtaugh’s resignation letter will be addressed by the Albert Lea City Council, most likely at its Sept. 27 meeting.

“I’ve certainly enjoyed working with Mayor Murtaugh,” said City Attorney Lee Bjorndal. “He’s been very dedicated and taken his duties very seriously.”

Albert Lea City Clerk Shirley Slater-Schulte said Mayor Pro Tem Al “Minnow” Brooks will take over the position, after Sunday, at least until the next meeting. At that time, the