After some discussion with city officials, I have decided not to pursue running for the council seat of Post 1 in the upcoming election.

I am currently involved with the city on several matters, and even though state and local ethics codes would allow me to continue to do both, if elected, I feel it would be disruptive to the city government and to the citizens of Peachtree City.

You may or may not be aware that I have never formally or informally announced my candidacy for office; I only qualified for the option to do so. It is my goal to be of service to this community, and at this time, I feel I am able to more productive to the citizens in other areas.

During these tough economic times, it is imperative that voters are educated and informed about each of the candidates’ respective platforms and the long-term effects that their decisions will have on our city.

Although you may not agree with me, Peachtree City could be the next “has been city” in a matter of a few short years. We have to be smart and not emotional with our decisions over these next years or Peachtree City may erode away as a place that used to be nice to call home.

The amenities we enjoy and the great public safety that exist here keep us above so many other places. We cannot lose either of those to tough economic times. Failing to attract viable commercial developments, whether new or refurbished, and failing to recognize good financial opportunities can be disastrous to our future.

Both the amenities and public safety cost money. Somehow we have to pay for those – either in the form of using cash reserves, higher taxes, or in good quality growth that expands the tax base. Doing nothing or cutting amenities (as some candidates propose) will lead straight to decreased home values and a reduction in your quality of life. The choice is yours.

I encourage all informed citizens of Peachtree City to get out to the polls and vote.

Dar Thompson

Peachtree City, Ga.