Dawsonville's acting mayor has resigned from the city council.

"Really and truly it's just one of those things I've been thinking about," James Grogan said during a special called city council meeting Thursday. "I prayed about it and felt that I couldn't serve both positions well.

"I felt it was best that I resigned from the one and gave my full attention to the other."

The resignation took effect Friday.

Under city council protocol, the appointed acting mayor does not give up his rights as a council member.

Therefore, until his resignation Grogan was able to act as mayor but still vote on council matters.

Grogan, who previously served as mayor pro-tem, was unanimously voted to serve as acting mayor on April 2 until a special election could be held July 31 to fill the vacancy left by the death of Joe Lane Cox.

Grogan has announced his intention to run for mayor this summer, as has Councilman Calvin Byrd. Qualifying is set for May 23-25.

During the meeting Thursday, Grogan recommended the temporary appointment of Dawsonville resident Caleb Phillips to his council seat.

Phillips, 25, is an area foreman and new to city government.

"I just want to make a difference in the county," Phillips said.

Grogan said he recommended Phillips for the post because he could see his enthusiasm to learn.

"He is a young guy who's energetic," Grogan said. "He's excited about learning about city government and wants to come and be a part of that for a period of time so he can get experience."

Grogan welcomed any other recommendations from the council for filling the spot.

A decision on the vacancy will be discussed at the council's next meeting, set for 5 p.m. May 7 in the G.L. "Pete" Gilleland Council Chambers at city hall, 415 Hwy. 53 East, Dawsonville.