Lafayette Council Member Mark Mitchell Dies

LAMORINDA, CA — The City of Lafayette is mourning the sudden passing of Council Member Mark Mitchell, who died Monday of natural causes.

Mitchell had a long history of public service in Lafayette, his life-long home. He began on the planning commission, serving from 2001 to 2012 until he was elected to the Lafayette City Council in 2012. While on the council, he served as mayor from 2015-16.

Mitchell was known throughout the community for his love of Lafayette.

"Mark was a thoughtful and dedicated public servant and we are all saddened by his passing," said Lafayette Mayor Don Tatzin. "Mark was the type of person we should want to emulate. He served on the council for one reason: to better the city, not to enhance his position or draw attention to
himself."

Tatzin said Mitchell was particularly helpful in improving the relationship between the city and the Lafayette School District as well as working to improve the city's East End. While serving on the planning commission, he worked on a number of long-range documents and policies that set the framework for development.

Some of his work as a planning commissioner included updating the general plan and its housing element, helping to guide the downtown specific plan, revising the hillside ordinance, creating more realistic guidelines for senior housing and supporting the creation of the Lafayette Library &
Learning Center.

"During my years in Lafayette, I've not met a person who loved our city more than Mark Mitchell," said City Manager Steven Falk. "I will miss his curiosity, his positive attitude and encouragement of good staff work ... He always put his community before himself, and for that, he deserves our highest respect and honor."

A memorial service and celebration of Mitchell's life will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette.

In lieu of flowers, his family has requested donations be made to Habitat for Humanity or to a charity of choice.

A page has been set up for members of the community to share memories of Council Member Mitchell online.

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— Bay City News; Image via Shutterstock