As you know, I previously indicated that I am seriously considering a campaign to become Mayor of Calgary in the fall municipal election.
Since making that announcement, I realized that I first needed to make my intentions clear about running for re-election as Alderman for Ward 4. I felt I owed it to those who have supported me so strongly over the years.
As a consequence, earlier this week I advised the Ward 4 Communities Council that I will not be seeking re-election as Alderman for Ward 4 in October.
It is hard to express in words what an incredible privilege it has been to serve as Ward 4 Alderman. I’ve been able to work next to wonderful leaders and great Calgarians who love our city passionately. I have been chosen repeatedly by my fellow citizens to serve a city that I too, love. I’ve been able to make friendships, memories, and achievements to treasure for the rest of my life.
In my statement to the Ward 4 Communities Council, I emphasized my appreciation for the support they have given me throughout the past 17 years. I could not have asked to serve with a better group of community leaders. What I have loved so much about these relationships is that they have taught me much about what it means to serve and to care for those around us. They have shown me what it means to lead “from the heart”.
The term we most often use to describe community leaders is “volunteers”. But in fact, they are leaders of a special kind. They give of their time and efforts because they care about their neighbourhoods and about the people who live beyond their own doorsteps. Like most community leaders in Calgary, they love this city and are trying to make it a better place. It’s pretty simple, but very profound. I can’t thank them enough for the supportive ways in which they have allowed me to work alongside them.
Before deciding whether or not to run for Mayor – as exciting as that prospect is – I realized that I had to first say goodbye to a role and to a position that has meant much to me. But most important of all, I had to first say, from the bottom of my heart, “Thank you!” to a special group of friends and supporters.
The people of Ward 4 deserve the very best. It is my fondest hope that several good strong leaders, with a love for Calgary, will step forward and run in the coming election. By giving lots of notice of my intentions, it provides time and clarity for others to make their decisions. I encourage them to run.
There is no honour greater than being able, as an elected leader, to make our community a better place for all. I know. Because I have been given the gift of experiencing it.
