The Poulsbo City Council’s second-longest serving member — and the only member to have graduated from North Kitsap High — announced his resignation Wednesday night.

Dale Rudolph, 62, a former engineer who cut a wide path of progress for several major projects, will end his council career Dec. 31. His exit marks the end of a 17-year run, but also the departure from the council of a unique historical perspective.

Rudolph grew up in Poulsbo, and entered politics after his father, who served both on Poulsbo’s council and as interim mayor. He is a proponent of Poulsbo’s history, often sharing anecdotes of the way things used to be. He carries his hometown pride always.

School Board President Tom Anderson said Wednesday he hopes Rudolph isn’t the last of his kind, and that more North Kitsap graduates join city leadership ranks.

Councilman Jeff McGinty is the only member on the council who has served longer, having been on the council for 19 years — two years longer than Rudolph.

Rudolph leaves the city with a new city hall and Comprehensive Plan, both of which he helped bring to life over several years.

“I feel that I will have crossed over the point, by the end of this year, at which my goals and passions will be largely satisfied,” Rudolph said.

Councilwoman Linda Berry-Maraist had it right, calling Rudolph’s service “a tremendous gift to the city.”

Rudolph’s leadership on the council will be missed. His knowledge of Poulsbo and roots in a tradition of service will be irreplaceable.