I have spent the better part of the past month wrestling with the decision regarding my future as Hampton’s Mayor.
After much reflection and prayer, I have found peace with my decision not to seek reelection.
I want to thank everyone who encouraged me to seek a second term, including a few people who I know were not excited that I won election in 2011. Their words have meant the world to me, but in a sense, I feel an inner voice advising me to rest up as there are bigger challenges ahead.
While the job of Mayor in Hampton is not a full-time position, it’s fair to say that a large portion of my otherwise “spare” time has been consumed by the job, and while I have enjoyed nearly every moment, I believe it’s time for my three children to have more “daddy” time, though my political involvement will continue, albeit on a modified course.
I have long advised friends, that we must take care of the most local form of government first, the home. As I turn the page to another chapter in my young political career, I continue to believe it’s true we need good people serving at every level of government, but I am also convinced now more than ever, that the problems facing future generations cannot be solved anywhere, but in the home.
I’m satisfied with what we’ve been able to accomplish in my short time as Mayor. I feel like we’ve increased the level of transparency and access to City Government by allowing a free flow of discussion from both members of the Council and members of the general public. That was very important to me when I decided to run in 2011. I have been humbled to serve with some very good people on the Hampton City Council, including City of Hampton Manager, Ron Dunt, and the entire crew who works behind the scenes to serve the public in our community.
As I’ve tried to make my decision whether to seek re-election this fall, I came up with many reasons to run, but they all seemed selfish. I feel as though I have accomplished the goals that I feel are attainable in this office, and trust that whoever holds the gavel for the next two years will honor the same level of respect for the People of Hampton in allowing them to drive the agenda, and the discussion.
