Yellowknife (Jan 28/05) - The public school board is hunting for a new trustee to fill the hole left by former mayor David Lovell.

Lovell, one of seven Yellowknife Education No. 1 trustees voted to the board in October 2003, hand-delivered his letter of resignation to chair Reanna Erasmus in early January.

His resignation was effective immediately. Lovell had not attended a board meeting since December.

The former vice-chair cited personal reasons for the decision, but wished his fellow trustees well for the remainder of their three-year terms.

"I think it's a very good organization. Good schools and teachers," said Lovell.

He said he supported the proposed changes to Yk No. 1 French programs.

"I was very glad he was on our board. He brought a lot to our board and he will be missed," said Erasmus.

The board is looking at three options to fill Lovell's spot: calling an election, contacting candidates on the voting list from the 2003 election or opening the position to the public.

A decision will be made at the Feb. 8 regular meeting, said Erasmus.