City of Merritt councillor Norm Brigden is expected to announce his resignation and departure from Merritt at Tuesday's council meeting.

A post on the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council website last Thursday advertised a fundraiser for the Navy League Cadets that doubled as a farewell party "to the Brigden's (sic) who are leaving the sunny Nicola Valley."

Brigden confirmed that the party was meant for him and his wife, former City of Merritt economic development officer Deanne Parise-Brigden, when the News contacted him Monday morning. He added that he was unaware of the event's purpose until just before he arrived.

However, Brigden declined to offer further details.

"I want to announce what's happening at the council meeting tomorrow night," he explained. Brigden said he would make a detailed announcement at the meeting and take questions from the media at that time.

Mayor Susan Roline told the News Monday morning that she was aware of the party. "I haven't received an official letter from him yet."

Roline said she could not comment further until Brigden officially submits a resignation letter.