EAST ALTON, Ill. (AP) — The mayor of East Alton is retiring after 18 years at the helm of the St. Louis suburb.
Fred Bright announced Tuesday he’ll step down on May 1.
The 72-year-old Democrat said his age and his health were factors in the decision. Bright said he’s going to have surgery for severe back problems.
Before becoming mayor, Bright served as police chief from 1972-1978. He also serves on the Madison County Democratic Central Committee.
The (Alton) Telegraph reports that the Board of Trustees will name one of its members to fill the mayor’s office.
