Publicola reports that Chuck Ayers, director of Cascade Bicycle Club, has resigned at the request of the board effective immediately. He has been the director since 1997.

In a statement to Publicola, Cascade board chair Chris Weiss said:

A revitalized leadership will bring fresh perspectives and ideas that enable us to remain committed to focusing on the grassroots power and passion of cyclists to improve their lives and the life of their communities.

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No other comments from Cascade.

UPDATE 3:30p: Cascade sent the following release. Basically, programming is continuing as usual and Peter Morgan will be the interim executive director:

The Board of Directors of Cascade Bicycle Club today announced a change in the Club’s Executive Director. At the Board’s request, Chuck Ayers is leaving Cascade. Peter Morgan, who has taken a leave from the Cascade Board, has been named Acting Executive Director until an interim executive director can be appointed.

Chuck led the Club during a critical time in our 40-year history, helping to grow our membership from 4,500 in 1997 to more than 13,000 members who today enjoy thousands of rides and dozens of events and educational programs every year. His efforts also have helped to position Cascade Bicycle Club as one of the strongest and most influential advocates in the nation for cyclists and cycling.

“While we are grateful for these and other accomplishments during his tenure, the Board has made the decision that Chuck is no longer the right person to lead Cascade into its next phase of growth and opportunity,” said Chris Weiss, chair of the Club’s Board of Directors.

“The Club is well positioned for a transition in leadership,” Chris added. “In addition to producing some of our region’s preeminent cycling events, Cascade’s many educational programs and its powerful advocacy have promoted real changes through the tireless efforts of our capable staff, our deeply committed volunteers, and our enlightened community sponsors. Cascade’s finances are strong and stable. We feel fortunate to enjoy the respect of our communities, our state, and many cycling enthusiasts nationwide. These strengths will allow us to recruit an exceptional new executive director.”

During the transition, Cascade will rely on an interim executive director to be named within the next several weeks. That individual will work with the Board, managers and staff to keep the club moving forward while Cascade conducts a comprehensive search for a permanent executive director.

“There will be no interruption of or changes in activities like our daily rides and major events, our advocacy efforts or our educational programs during this transition,” Chris said. “We promise that the breadth, depth and quality of services you rely on will continue.”

The Board believes this transition in leadership comes at an exciting period of growth and opportunity for the Club. As more and more people are cycling for health, recreation and environmental stewardship – and as more and more communities are seeking ways to increase their viability and livability through bicycling – they are turning to Cascade Bicycle Club for activities, advocacy and education.

“A revitalized leadership will bring fresh perspectives and ideas that enable us to remain committed to focusing on the grassroots power and passion of cyclists to improve their lives and the life of their communities,” Chris concluded.

If you have questions about the transition, or if you would like to make suggestions to assist in the search for a new executive director, please email Acting Executive Director Peter Morgan.