Francis: No run for mayor

By Staff
Bob Francis, Guest columnist
During the past several months, I have discussed my potential candidacy for mayor of Hartselle with a number of citizens, both voters within the corporate limits and others who have businesses within the city but reside elsewhere. These discussions were not for securing voter support but for gaining opinions about my approach to leading the city. The discussions were candid and valuable in the design of a potential platform and campaign. To each of you who gave freely of your time and patience, please accept my sincere appreciation.
As promised, I made my decision on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14. That decision is that I will not be a candidate in 2004. The decision was difficult and with mixed emotions, many factors were visited and revisited. Ultimately, my head overruled my heart. My feelings were that I wanted to exercise my education and career-long experience in management to take Hartselle where it needs to go in the 21st century. Realistically, I could not see my way to fully dedicate myself as mayor and at the same time pursue personal business interests.
Hartselle is at a critical time with regard to the future; a time in which it must become robustly competitive with neighboring municipalities; a time in which it must take pride in its heritage; make the present better and vigorously pursue the future.
I offer my perception of some key issues in which Hartselle must engage immediately:
Following are some enabling issues key to success:
The next administration must:
I request the voters of Hartselle to please vote on Aug. 24. Hartselle's future is in your hands. In doing so, please inform yourself of each candidate's qualifications and give Hartselle a team elected for their credentials, not their popularity or name.
I encourage and welcome dialogue with all candidates involved in the 2004 municipal election and offer my support to the 2004-05 administration.