Summit Common Council President Lisa Allen announced her resignation from office at the council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, September 3. Allen, who has served on Common Council since 2021 and as its president for the past eight months, cited “personal reasons” as the impetus for her early departure from the dais.
“For the past three and a half years, I have had the privilege of serving the residents of Summit, a journey that has been both incredibly rewarding and humbling,” Allen said. “As a Councilmember and then Council President, I have had the unique opportunity to learn, grow, and truly understand the intricacies of local government while working alongside all of the dedicated people involved. I am proud to have served Summit with a team of committed colleagues, the hardworking staff at City Hall, and residents who share my deep love for this town. My hope is that my contributions have made Summit just a little better than when I started, and that my legacy will be one of focusing on what truly matters, listening with an open heart and showing empathy for all residents, no matter their background, economic status, or beliefs."
Allen was initially appointed to a Ward 2 Common Council seat in February 2021 to fill the unexpired term of former Councilmember Steve Bowman. She was re-elected in 2021 and 2022 and was then chosen by the full body as Council President in January 2024. During her time in office, Allen championed causes including transparency in government, responsible development, and public safety.
Until Allen’s successor is selected, Council President Pro Tempore Delia Hamlet will serve as Acting President. Since Allen is a Republican, the Summit Republican City Committee (SRCC) will nominate three potential choices, from which the remaining six councilmembers will choose Allen’s replacement to serve the balance of her current term.
“I want to thank Council President Allen for her incredible work over the past three and a half years,” Summit Mayor Elizabeth Fagan said. “It has been a privilege to serve beside her and learn from her since January. I am incredibly grateful to her for sharing her experience and knowledge. She has accomplished a great deal as Council President and I am sad to see her go, but I know that Council President Pro Tempore Hamlet is well-equipped to continue the great work she has been doing. I wish her the best and thank her for her service to this wonderful city of ours.”