Republican leader leaving New York City Council

The leader of the New York City Council's GOP delegation is quitting his post to take a job overseeing a Catholic charity.

Vincent Ignizio (R-Staten Island), one of three Republicans in the 51-member chamber, announced yesterday that he would vacate the seat he's held since 2007. He will become chief executive of Catholic Charities of Staten Island.

Once Ignizio formally resigns, the mayor must announce a special election within three days, with the election to be held the first Tuesday after 45 more days, council spokesman Eric Koch said.

Ignizio's spokesman, Peter Spencer, said Ignizio is expected to leave his seat sometime this summer.

Earlier this week Councilman Mark Weprin (D-Queens) said he'd quit the council to take a job with Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo.

By Matthew Chayes

matthew.chayes@newsday.comchayesmatthew

Matthew Chayes, a Newsday reporter since 2007, covers New York City.