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Republican Salt Lake County Councilman Jeff Allen announced Wednesday afternoon he will resign his District 5 council seat at the end of the year.

In a letter released at 3 p.m., Allen cited an ever-expanding time commitment related to his council post that no longer balances with the needs of his family.

“I have five children which require the increased attention of their father,” Allen wrote. “As the county continues to work on budget issues in these uncertain economic times and as significant changes are being made across the county — the time needed to commit to this cause has significantly increased, as well.”

Allen, who owns a commercial real estate consulting business, has represented his south county district since 2006, when he won the seat in a decisive victory over Democrat Nate Hendricks. The win maintained GOP control of the council seat, which was previously held by Cort Ashton.

Allen has led the council Republicans since January, when the party became a minority on the board for the first time since switching from a commission to council format nearly a decade ago.

Democratic Council Chairman Joe Hatch said Allen was an effective and committed member, whose presence will be missed.

“It’s been a pleasure working with Jeff the past three years,” Hatch said. “He’s a member who has battled for his constituents and, in particular, been a fantastic force the past two years in dealing with budget issues.”

Allen’s replacement will be decided by the eight remaining members of the council, who will chose from three nominees picked by the Salt Lake County Republican Party Central Committee.

e-mail: araymond@desnews.com