Tyrone Town Councilman Michael Smola announced Thursday that he is running to become the next mayor of Tyrone.

Smola made his announcement near the conclusion of a Town Council meeting.

"I've enjoyed my last five years as Post 1 councilman," Smola said. "I also recognize other positions are becoming available. The most important position in Tyrone in the next four years will be mayor of this town. I would like to announce my candidacy for that position tonight."

Current Tyrone Mayor Sheryl Lee is not seeking re-election. Thus far, Smola's only opposition is local businessman Chip Young.

Smola sat down for a brief interview following the meeting and discussed his qualifications for the mayoral position.

“I’m a great listener,” Smola said. “I take a balanced approach to everything I do. I’m big on planning. I’m fairly entrenched in the community.”

Smola feels he, along with his fellow town council members, has played a significant role in controlling development in Tyrone.

“I have seen Tyrone evolve from a country town to a metropolitan suburb,” Smola said. “Over time, we had a plan in place. We have tried to control development. I’m pretty confident that, looking at [the council’s] record, we’re doing a good job of managing growth.

“We haven’t experienced much traffic and crime here. I would like to continue that for four more years. We’re reaching build-out. I would like to finish the job and see what Tyrone looks like.”

Smola said one of his biggest accomplishments as a town councilman was playing a role in the development of Tyrone’s new library, set to open in December.

“I’m a strong proponent of the library,” Smola said. “I’m proud it will open before the end of the year. I feel had a lot to with that.”

Giving back to the community is the primary reason he has decided to run for mayor, Smola said.

“I love this town,” Smola said. “I have lived here for almost 15 years. Tyrone has been good to my family, and we want to be good for Tyrone.”