PLATTSBURGH -- Donald Garrant is resigning from the Plattsburgh State College Council.

Garrant, who was an administrator when he retired from the university in 1999, has been a force as chair of the College Council, consistently requesting detailed, up-to-date reports in his appointed role.

His term was to end June 30.

"I have been involved with the college for quite a few years and am not sure I would be reappointed anyway," Garrant, 72, said of his resignation.

Garrant is a Republican, appointed in 2002 by former Gov. George Pataki, while current Gov. David Paterson is a Democrat.

"Sometimes it is a political decision," Garrant said. "I am willing to stay on until the governor finds a replacement.

Paterson could choose not to accept Garrant's request to step down.

Garrant began his career at Plattsburgh State in 1960 as director of public information. He also served as assistant to the president for college relations, executive assistant to the president for college relations and development and vice president for institutional advancement.

"For years, I was a staff officer for the College Council and helped prepare agendas. I enjoyed working with the council, and after I retired (in 1999) thought I would want to be a member."

He mentioned his desire to former State Sen. Ronald Stafford and was later appointed by Pataki for a six-year term.

Pataki appointed him chair in 2004 after former Chair Robert Garrow retired.

Garrant said he has enjoyed watching the university grow.

"About five years ago, enrollment was pretty low, and we were not getting applications or meeting our goals. I have seen it grow tremendously, thanks to the leadership of Provost Golden. We are doing very well and are one of the leaders in terms of enrollment goals.

"Applications increased by about 2,000 over five years, the quality of our student body has increased, and we are very pleased with our fundraising and capital campaign. College-community relations seem to be going well too."

One of the tasks of the College Council is to bring forth community concerns.