Roanoke City Councilwoman Gwen Mason is taking the "green" path.

Mason, who is not seeking re-election for her term ending June 30, has been named the next executive director of the Clean Valley Council. She will replace the council's longtime Director Ann Masters, who died of a heart attack in December. Masters, 74, led the organization since 1994.

The Clean Valley Council seeks to educate students in Roanoke, Salem, Roanoke County, Botetourt County and Vinton about litter prevention and strategies to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Allan "Cap" Robinson, a member of the council's board of directors, said Mason brings knowledge and enthusiasm to the post.

"We are very excited about her vision for this organization and her commitment to carrying on Ann Masters' dream of environmental stewardship and education," Robinson said.

Mason works part time from home as a grant writer. She is a former manager for the U.S. Department of the Interior. Mason and her husband, Bill, have two children who attend the city's public schools.

Mason's first day on the job is Feb. 17.

-- Courtney Cutright