The Seattle politician, "who served on the city council for more than 20 years before stepping down in 2009, had battled a series of health issues," the Seattle Times reports. He was 71.

Here's the official statement on his passing from Seattle City Council:

It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of our friend, the Honorable Richard McIver. Richard committed his life to improving the lot of others. His community development career, including his years as a member of the Seattle City Council, was grounded in a quest for equity of opportunity, justice, and elevating quality of life for people in need.

Richard’s deep knowledge of economic development strategies and belief in the positive power of government action made him a valuable ally not just for people of color and small businesses, but for a just and equitable future for the city as a whole.

Richard employed terrific dignity, a wicked sense of humor and a sharp ear for equivocation in pursuit of a better city for all. We will miss him greatly.

We'll have some analysis of McIver's time on the city council tomorrow.