San Juan Bautista Mayor Jim West passed away Thursday, Dec. 6, according to a city press release. No cause of death has been given at this time.

Councilmember John Freeman sent out the following press release Thursday afternoon:

"The City of San Juan Bautista was very saddened today to learn of the passing of their mayor and beloved resident, the Honorable Jim West. Mayor West was a long-time resident of San Benito County and recently made San Juan Bautista his home, where he turned his attention and tireless, never-ending spirit of community involvement to helping the citizens of the Mission City and the local community. Jim was also the passionate representative of Granite Rock, a company he emphatically believed in, loved and epitomized wherever he went. Jim leaves behind many great friends, colleagues and associates in our community, and his presence will be greatly missed. The City of San Juan Bautista wishes to extend its most heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends. You will be missed, Mr. Mayor."

The San Juan Bautista City Council was set to hold a special meeting Thursday at 3 p.m., but it was canceled.

According to the San Benito County Sheriff's Office, deputies were called to West's workplace, Graniterock, this morning by an employee who reported West's death.

This is not a criminal case and was not work-related, according to an email from Captain Eric Taylor.

According to Grunnagle-Ament-Nelson Funeral Home, family members are planning a private intermant at San Joaquin National Cemetery and local celebration of life will be held locally at date to be announced.