Former Orange County Judge Pete Runnels has resigned as mayor of the City of Pinehurst.

In a brief letter dated Sept. 19, Runnels, 76, informed Pinehurst City Council and Administration that he will be retiring as of Oct. 3, 2019.

He was in his seventh term as mayor of Pinehurst. Previously, Runnels served two terms, from 1976 to 1983, as Orange County judge.

Mayor-Pro Tem Dan Mohon has been leading council meetings the past two months, during a prolonged absence by Runnels, who was hospitalized for a time this summer.

The City of Pinehurst will name a replacement for Runnels at its next meeting, Tuesday, Oct. 8. The next city election is in May, 2020.

Mohon is a former two-term mayor of the City of Orange, from 1988 to 1992.

"That was a long time ago," Mohon said. "My hair was a different color. But if council decides to appoint me, I'll probably serve."