Seadrift Public Works Director Robert Bryant resigns

Following a series of departures earlier this year, Seadrift Public Works Director Robert Bryant is now the latest public official to leave the city’s employment following his resignation on Dec. 19.

Christy Bryant, wife of the resigning director, confirmed his resignation and explained that his decision to leave was primarily motivated by health concerns stemming from current medical issues and other unspecified reasons.

“My husband has resigned from the city of Seadrift after 27 years of loyal service. My husband is so loved by this community, so it's been really hard on all of us,” Christy Bryant said.

Bryant’s exit from the city, and subsequent post announcing his leaving received an outpouring of support from the Seadrift community, with several individuals commenting on his efforts to help maintain the city and community. Others, however, decried his resignation and blamed current Seadrift City Council members for his departure.

“I'm saddened that Robert has quit, but I'm happy he did because he deserves way better along with the others,” commentator Beth Christy said.

“This is so sad. I know he resigned, but he deserved so much better. When it comes time for elections again, I hope and pray people remember this,” commentator Rebecca Millspaw Ureste said.

“[I] never met Robert, but anyone with open eyes could see that not only Robert, but a few others went above and beyond to better Seadrift. People better wake up and open their eyes, and see who the real problem is,” commentator Charles Obrien said.

“We are letting the council pick apart our city one worker at a time and replacing them with out of town contractors,” Daily Drifter Facebook page admin Betsy Cunningham said.

Seadrift Councilwoman Alysa Jarvis confirmed Bryant’s resignation and reiterated that his resignation was his own choice.

“Since his resignation was for personal reasons, I am not at liberty to say [why he resigned]. But I will say his resignation was his own decision. There was no pressure from city council,” Jarvis said. “He has been on leave since October and wasn’t scheduled to return to work until Jan. 6. There has been no formal communication with him while he has been on leave.”