Jessica Musicar, Staff Writer

NORTH BEND — The North Bend School District is once again looking to fill a vacant seat, as one of its newer members has resigned.

After only a year in office, board member Dave Ellingson vacated his position on Sept. 1 to move to southern Texas. The former contractor said he’s relocating for his health and so his wife, Alicia, can be closer to her family. North Bend residents elected Ellingson last May. His term would have ended in 2011.

“I really enjoyed being on the board. I liked working with everyone on North Bend School District,” Ellingson said Monday. “I didn’t want to leave the board, but we just decided it was the best thing for our family.”

The native Oregonian said he may join a school board in Texas in the future, as he has grown enthusiastic about leading education.

“I’m bummed about leaving. ... I was very much enthusiastic about being on the board,” he said.

At the North Bend School Board’s regular meeting Monday night, board members said they appreciated Ellingson’s presence as much as the 59-year-old enjoyed participating.

“We just hate to see him go. He was such a great addition to the board,” said board president Karen Helland.

Ellingson’s slot must go to a person who lives north of the McCullough Bridge, which can be a difficult position to fill, Helland said. She encouraged community members and staff who attended the meeting to get the word out. Those who are interested in applying for the Zone 1 position must write a letter of interest to the school district. The letters will be reviewed by the school board, and potential appointees will be interviewed if more than one apply.

The board will review letters of interest and board placement decisions at its Oct. 13 meeting. Letters of interest must be received prior to Friday, Sept. 19.

Helland noted that whomever is appointed must run in the next election next spring to retain the seat.