SAN ANTONIO – Edward Benavides has resigned as Tricentennial Commission CEO, effective immediately.
"The Tricentennial is an important historic milestone, to be enjoyed and experienced by residents and visitors alike. Our 300th anniversary should imbue joy, aspiration and legacy, not the negativity that currently surrounds the community-wide planning. For these reasons I have resigned as CEO of the Commission," Benavides said in a statement.
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Assistant City Manager Carlos Contreras will serve as interim CEO until a permanent replacement is approved by the commission, a news release said.
"We appreciate Edward's steadfast commitment to the Tricentennial planning effort," said Commission President Robert Thrailkill. "Edward worked extremely hard to prepare for the official celebration of San Antonio's 300th birthday. We respect his decision to do what he believes is in the best interest of the city."
City Manager Sheryl Sculley said in a statement that Benavides "has been a valuable asset to the City of San Antonio" and "was grateful for the passion and commitment he gave to the Tricentennial effort." Sculley said Benavides will be reassigned to another city position.
Related: SA Tricentennial Commission appointments announced
Mayor Ron Nirenberg said that he approved of Benavides' resignation.
"I applaud Edward’s willingness to step aside and minimize distractions as San Antonio commemorates its 300th birthday," Nirenberg said. "The Tricentennial is the most important moment in our lifetime to exhibit who we are and what our city will be in its next era."
The Tricentennial Commission was formed to plan, promote and coordinate the yearlong celebration of San Antonio's 300th birthday in 2018.
Related: Learn more about the Tricentennial
The Commission is led by a group of community leaders volunteering their time, and focuses on highlighting the past, present, and future of San Antonio and its vibrant culture.
"The Tricentennial Commission remains focused on a successful 300th birthday celebration that highlights the city's history, culture and arts," said Commission Co-chairman Lionel Sosa. "Our full concentration is on the commemoration of San Antonio's important milestone and the 700 community events to be held next year."
KSAT 12 is the official media partner of the Tricentennial.
Edward-Benavides-statement.pdf by David Ibanez on Scribd