Mayor Travis Mitchell said Ellison submitted, in writing, his resignation toward the end of July.
"By state statute, it becomes effective with or without action from this board [in] eight calendar days—that's imminent to happen but, as is the tradition and custom of this council, whenever there is an early resignation we typically accept that in the form of a vote," Mitchell said.
Ellison helped launch and moderated the city's Dialogues for Peace and Progress to start help facilitate open conversations between the community on topics such as Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Juneteenth and more.
"Those were amazing. You made a difference; I want you to know that—you made a difference," Council Member Michael Tobias said.
Ellison was first elected to the council in November 2017 and was serving his second term, which was set to end this November. He also served on the Planning and Zoning Commission prior to his terms on City Council.
"I'm not sure that there's anyone I've served with who I would say cared more and more passionately and deeply than him," Mitchell said. "Council Member Ellison just exuded care for the residents and the things he was passionate about."
His seat will remain vacant until elections this November.
Ellison did not respond to requests for comment.
