Posted: February 02, 2009

For quite awhile now, people I respect have encouraged me to run for mayor
of St. Petersburg. I'm always honored and humbled when someone approaches me
about it because the job of mayor has never been more important. I
personally have a strong desire to see St. Petersburg shine through this
period of economic downturn, and to thrive again as a safe, diverse
community, with strong neighborhoods, a vibrant arts scene, a sense of
place, and a government which is open and accessible.

Aside from the personal encouragement I've received, various news outlets
have included my name when listing the current candidates or potential
candidates. It is true that I've given it a great deal of thought lately.

An opportunity like this doesn't come along often, and as I'm always
thinking of how best to serve my community, I simply couldn't just rule it
out. Also, because such a decision for me is personal, and not political, it
hasn't come easily or swiftly. After having given this decision the thought
and attention it deserves, I now know this: I do not intend to run for mayor
in 2009.

There are some good people running for this office, including friends and
former colleagues, and there are still others who may join the race. While
the city has made positive growth during my time on council and since I've
left, there remains much work to be done. I stand ready to assist the next
mayor and will do all I can to help move this city forward.

Finally, I want to thank all those who encouraged me to run, and would especially
like to thank former St. Pete Mayor David Fischer and Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio for sharing
their time and wisdom with me.

I ask for your continued support as I help to address Florida's challenges.