Annapolis Mourns Death of Former Alderman Richard Israel

Former Alderman Richard Israel died Monday night from Parkinson’s disease, city officials said.

After resigning his position as Annapolis Ward One Alderman in April of 2013, Israel moved out of his Shaw Street home and into the Ginger Cove Community.

“Mr. Israel lived his life serving his community,” Mayor Michael Pantelides said in a statement. “He guided his constituents and the city by holding us all to the highest standards of the law.”

In his eight-year tenure as an Annapolis City Council alderman, Israel served as the chairman of the Finance Committee with oversight of the city’s budget and was chairman of the Rules and City Government Committee with review of all proposed amendments to the City Charter and Zoning Code.

Alderman Israel introduced bills establishing a citywide Heritage Commission and a Blue Ribbon Commission on city finances. The council approved his Adequate Public Facilities legislation, a bond fund and the Citizens Committee to Review Alcoholic Beverage Laws. His legislation introduced First Sunday’s to Annapolis, March Madness, the Boat Shows, and the regulation of special events.

The flag will be flown at half-staff at City Hall as a show of respect for Israel’s commitment to the city and its residents.

Information about arrangements will be published when ​it becomes available.

»Photo of former Alderman Richard Israel, courtesy of city of Annapolis website