Councilman David Sasak, 61, died Monday due to multiple health problems, Council President Michael Ballistrea said.
"He was a personal friend as well as a colleague," Ballistrea said. "It's sad for the city. Dave Sasak was always professional as a councilman and was much involved in city activities."
"We are all truly saddened by the unfortunate news of Councilman Dave Sasak's passing," Mayor Gregory Costabile said. "He has devoted a good portion of his life towards assisting the city of Mayfield Heights and he will be missed. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family during this difficult time."
Sasak was appointed to the city's Planning Commission in January 1999 and served on that board until he started on council in January 2006. He was re-elected to council in 2009. Ballistrea said Sasak had also served on the Parks and Recreation Commission and was a member of the Mayor's Advisory Board under former Mayor Margaret Egensperger.
He was chairman of the Legislative Committee and council's representative on the Planning Commission.
Ballistrea said that council will need to appoint someone to Sasak's council seat for the remainder of the year. Because there are more than two years remaining in the term, the position will likely be on the ballot this fall, he said.
"I have to get that verified with the law director, but I believe the appointment will just be to finish this year," Ballistrea said.
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