The questions surrounding the sudden resignation of Dr. Michael Williams, Medical Director for the District's Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, continue. As we mentioned in today's Morning Roundup, no one seems to know why he resigned, even though Williams intimated there was a specific reason when asked by the Washington Post.

Now D.C. Council member Phil Mendelson (D-At large), who serves as chairman of the Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary, has released a statement saying he'd like some answers from the Mayor's office, especially about why Williams wasn't made available to testify at a recent Council hearing on EMS reform:

“I am dismayed by the unexplained circumstances surrounding the resignation of Dr. Michael Williams as Medical Director for the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department. From my work with Dr. Williams, clearly, he was dedicated to the goal of elevating the quality of our emergency medical services.

“The Department has raised no concerns about Dr. Williams’ performance. His abrupt resignation raises questions. For example, I had requested that Dr. Williams testify at a hearing in May on EMS reform legislation. Unfortunately, the Executive refused to provide Dr. Williams (or any FEMS witness) and I was forced to recess the hearing indefinitely. Only last night did the Executive commit to finally provide an EMS witness --and, incidentally, said nothing about Dr. Williams’ resignation.

“I look forward to an explanation of the circumstances that led to Dr. Williams’ resignation and what the department’s plans are for moving forward with the reforms he initiated. The Emergency Medical Services Improvement Act of 2008, enacted earlier this year, requires Council confirmation of any new medical director. I look forward to a thorough vetting of the candidates for this critical appointment.

“Meanwhile, I commend Dr. Williams for his hard work. This has been a time of great turmoil within FEMS and I believe that he has been effective, and tireless in his dedications to the District and its citizens.”