Read why the new Jackson public works director decided to quit again. City's search continues

For the second time, City of Jackson Public Works Director Khalid Woods has quit.

Woods, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, first took the job in July before resigning at the end of July after only 11 days on the job. Woods returned to the position nine days ago after Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba announced he was returning at a press conference.

On Wednesday afternoon, the mayor's office announced Woods was again resigning and that the city would resume a nationwide search for a new public works director.

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve as the Public Works Director for the City of Jackson,” Woods said in a statement explaining why he is resigning. “Upon my return, I found that my productivity is not where I would like it to be. I’ve not seen the progress that I wanted to see. Due to the stress of the position and the toll that it is taking on my mental health, I feel as though it is best that I step away from my position permanently. I believe this is the best decision for the City and my family. Please respect our privacy."

Lumumba accepted Woods' resignation, the statement reads, and wished him well.

“Public Works Director is not an easy job. I respect that Mr. Woods decided to step away from the job when he realized that it was simply too much,” Lumumba said. “We look forward to now moving forward with our search, and finding someone willing to meet the challenges of our evolving city.”

In a telephone interview Wednesday, Ward 4 Councilman Brian Grizzell said he was scheduled to have a meeting with Woods at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, but Woods stood him up. Grizzell said this was telling.

"I think the writing is on the wall. He's clearly not committed to the role and not committed to the citizens of Jackson," Grizzell said. "I think it's time to look for someone else."

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Jackson MS public works director quits for the second time