Shawn Skinner’s return to St. John’s city council has been short-lived.

The Ward 2 councillor announced yesterday he will not be seeking re-election in next month’s vote.

Skinner was returned to council in a by-election just nine months ago, but wanted to see if he could devote the necessary time before committing to a full term.

He notes he still works full-time and that, along with family commitments, made him realize he wouldn’t have the time needed to properly serve the residents of Ward 2.

Skinner previously served on council from 1993 to ’97, and as a Tory MHA and minister in the provincial government.

He is currently the training director at the Carpenter Millwright College in Paradise.