The League of Arizona Cities and Towns has lost its largest member. After more than 80 years, Phoenix has withdrawn from the group.

During last week’s city council meeting, members voted 7 to 1 against paying the League’s annual membership dues. Councilwoman Vania Guevara was the lone member in support.

“Time and time again the League staff has worked against our interests without consulting or involving us,” said Mayor Thelda Williams. “They are proven ineffective on several key issues that have affected us in meaningful ways.”

Phoenix had been a member of the League since it formed in 1937. Its main mission is to represent the interests of cities and towns at the state capitol,

“As stewards of public dollars, we have to be very responsible,” said Williams. “And I cannot justify paying dues to an organization that has been ineffective for Phoenix taxpayers.”

Phoenix’s annual dues were more than $145,000. A city public information officer said the funds will remain unspent in the Government Relations Department budget.

The League’s new president, Christian Price, sent the following statement to KJZZ:

"Although I've only been President of the AZ League for two months, I went to the Phoenix City Council to answer their questions and listen to their concerns as it relates to their membership in the Arizona League of Cities and Towns. Of course we are disappointed with their current decision. But ultimately it is the decision of the elected leadership in each city or town throughout Arizona to make the final determination on being involved with the League. While we are optimistic that Phoenix will remain a member long term, we respect their council’s recent decision.

"As you know the League exists to promote local self-governance and our primary focus is to represent the interests of all member cities and towns before the legislature. Our goal is to strengthen the quality of life and common good of all Arizonans and we are committed to that mission and will continue to be a strong advocate for the citizens of all Arizona’s cities and towns."