Beaufort mayor resigns, effective immediately

BEAUFORT, S.C. (WTOC) - The mayor of Beaufort has resigned, effective immediately.

Stephen Murray announced his resignation as mayor of Beaufort after more than two years in the position, stating that he does not feel like he is currently up to the task of the mayor he wants to be, nor the one Beaufort deserves.

In a lengthy Facebook post, Murray highlighted the changes that he and the council brought about that he was most proud of accomplishing. But then said the progress of city government was not easy, saying “I’ve been actively fighting against some of these folks and the status quo for almost nine years. And while I’m proud of the work and I know there is still much to be done, I’m tired. I’m tired of the daily barrage of uncivil and rude people accusing me of impropriety without a shred of proof.”

He went on to say, “I’m also tired of prioritizing my civic job at the expense of my health, my family, my friends, my businesses, and my reputation.”

Mayor Pro Tem Michael McFee is stepping in as acting mayor until a special election is held to fill the position.

“Surprised… a little shocked, but understand Stephen’s desires and respect those, so we’re moving forward,” McFee said.

With Murray gone, the city council will temporarily have four members, instead of five. McFee says this shouldn’t be a concern.

“Because we’ve been an integral team and we’ve been working together. There won’t be any major changes as far as the city’s concerned,” McFee said.

While McFee is confident in Beaufort’s City Council, he says Murray will be missed.

“Nobody would spend the energy and time that Stephen Murray spent as Mayor of the City of Beaufort. He was very accomplished at what he did, and he was extremely good at what he did,” McFee said.

A special election is expected to be held on Dec. 12 to elect the new permanent mayor.

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