Medford Mayor Chris Myers resigned on Monday, saying he could no longer devote the time needed for the job due to his work commitments.
The Courier Post reported he was put on administrative leave to "avoid workplace distractions" earlier this month at Lockheed Martin, where he has been a vice president.
The paper also reports:
Myers served nine years on township council and quit his $5,500 per year post despite declaring he would not resign in the midst of an alleged pay-for-gay sex scandal that garnered international coverage.
In his resignation letter, Myers listed the achievements he was most proud of during his tenure and then said:
While much has been accomplished during the last 10 years, there will always be more to do and new challenges to face. At this time, I feel it's time to pass the baton, and allow others to take the reins and lead our town forward. My work commitments will not allow me to devote the time that is needed in the months ahead. That is why, today, I am resigning from the Medford Township Council, effective immediately.
Reports that an anonymous person claimed he was hired as a male escort by Myers first surfaced in October.
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In early November, Myers, who is married with children, "categorically denied" the allegations at a township meeting. He thanked his family and friends for their support. He said it was plain wrong that an anonymous person can say anything they want on the Internet "and not stand up and put their name to it."
That Nov. 3 meeting was Myers' last. He missed the next two meetings and then postponed a third until Monday, the day of his resignation, according to the Courier Post.
Councilman Bob Martin was sworn in as interim mayor Monday.
"Having something like this happen makes it even worse," said Martin. "It gives us more things we have to deal with but we're dealing with it."
The township was expected to appoint a permanent mayor on Jan. 3.
