City Councilman Greg Stanton has announced the promotion of Marc Thornton to the council office's chief of staff position. Thornton will oversee the District 6 staff, supervise the office's case management system and represent the councilman at meetings and community functions.

Thornton volunteered with the Americorps program for two years after graduating from Arizona State University in 2000 with a degree in history. He has worked with the council for two years overall and as a council aide in District 6 for more than a year. Thornton is a fourth-generation Phoenician with strong ties to the Valley.

"Marc is a native Phoenician who has done an outstanding job in my office," said Stanton. "He has a great work ethic and understanding of the communities we represent. Marc will help lead our team to continue performing excellent constituent service for residents of District 6."

Thornton replaces Jessica Blazina, who held the job for three years. Blazina has taken a position as director of government affairs for Rural Metro Fire.

District 6 includes Ahwatukee Foothills, Arcadia, Biltmore and North Central Phoenix.