By DAVE HAMRICK
Staff Writer

Fayetteville Mayor Mike Wheat surprised onlookers Tuesday by announcing he will not seek reelection Nov. 2.

Wednesday morning, City Councilman Kenneth Steele announced he will seek to replace Wheat in the mayor's chair. And since Steele is up for reelection himself, that announcement means neither his seat nor the mayor's will have an incumbent in the race.

“I am a strong believer in term limits and I feel I must `walk the talk,' so my service as mayor will end when my term ends in December,” said Wheat, reading a prepared statement during the City Council's called meeting Tuesday night. He also cited a desire to “spend more time on business and family.”

“The city is in great hands because the staff's in great shape,” Wheat told The Citizen following the meeting.

Wheat, who has been mayor for nine years, left the door open for future political ambitions, saying he will probably run for some other office in the future. “I'll be around, but I just won't be mayor,” he said.

The text of Wheat's statement follows:

“It has been a pleasure and privilege serving the citizens of Fayetteville and Fayette county as mayor of Fayetteville for the past nine years. I have enjoyed support from many individuals and organizations in our community over those years, including the city's fine staff, many of the businesses in the county and friends and neighbors.

“We have come far in the past nine years and I am most proud of the progress we have made on our Main Street vision. Thanks to each and every one of you for your support and your efforts on behalf of the city and the county.

“After much reflection, I have decided not to seek another term as mayor of Fayetteville. I have decided not to run so I can spend more time on business and family. Also, I am a strong believer in term limits and I feel I must `walk the talk,' so my service as mayor will end when my term ends in December. I know once the election is over this fall and the new mayor takes office in January, we will all support the new mayor in improving our community.

“I will always have a passion for public service and, when the time and issues are right and a strong conservative voice is needed, I shall likely run for another elected office.

“Thanks again to all of you."