Ben Knappmiller Resigns from JP Neighborhood Council

Ben Knappmiller, a one-term member of the , is stepping down to take a job in New York.

"My wife and I are very sad to leave Jamaica Plain," Knappmiller said in an email to Patch. "It has been such a wonderful place to live and we leave with very fond memories of the incredibly friendly and caring people we've met here."

While on the Neighborhood Council, Knappmiller was especially active in revamping the council's public communications, including improving the board's website.

"He's done an incredible amount of work," said Andrew Howley, chairperson of the elected, volunteer advisory board. "He will be missed."

Knappmiller announced his resignation at Tuesday's .

He is not the only board member who won't be standing for re-election come Sept. 24. Council Member Dave Demerjian also told Patch he will not seek a second term.

The Neighborhood Council advises city boards on a wide variety of issues like restaurant permits, zoning and how to improve city services. Recently, the board has garnered attention for its handling of Whole Foods' decision to come to Jamaica Plain. In a , Knappmiller and Demerjian were on opposite sides. The council narrowly voted to approve a statement that Whole Foods is "not a good fit" for Hyde Square. Knappmiller supported the statement and Demerjian voted against it.

Interested in running for a seat on the Neighborhood Council? Here is a packet of information you'll need to get started.