Cr Harvison handed his resignation to general manager Scott Greensill last week. It takes effect from April 30, 2010.

Speaking exclusively to The Singleton Argus yesterday, Cr Harvison said health issues prompted his decision.

“I really came to the decision after concluding that health and family are most important,” Cr Harvison said.

He said his decision was regrettable but after having a round-table discussion with his wife and four children, it became apparent that he had to ‘get out’.

“I have got seven grandkids I don’t see,” he said.

“I have been married to Pauline for 12 years and she is still in Sydney.”

“We spent holidays together and weekends but that was about it.”

He plans to move back to Sydney after the end of his lease at Video Ezy and when he sells his Singleton home.

“I am going to sell up as much stock as I can and I will work from home until I sell that and then I will move to Sydney to become a house-husband,” he said.

“I look forward to doing that, to see my grandkids more,” he said.

Of his time on elected duty, Cr Harvison said he had been selfish in doing what he did.

“I was mayor to the exclusion of my family to a large degree, it was a role I enjoyed, in fact it was one of the greatest highlights of my life but now, with these health issues, it is time to sit back and smell the roses,” he said.

He named the extension to the gym and swim, the construction of the new youth venue and library among his council’s greatest achievements during his time as mayor.

He is also proud of the outcome of the Bridgman Ridge land development and the community trust that has grown from that.

He has also made many friends in Singleton, strong friendships that he intends to keep.

“I’ll be back, back to go out for dinner and have barbecues,” he said.