Takoma Park City Councilman Seth Grimes had planned to run for mayor. Today he announced that he’s not running, nor is he running for reelection in Ward 1. His email to constituents in its entirety:
I had earlier announced a run for mayor of Takoma Park. After weeks of reflection, even while developing a campaign, I have realized that serving as mayor is not the path for me so I am discontinuing my campaign. I’m out.
It has been an honor serving Ward 1 and the city, which I’ve done to the best of my ability.”
I’d venture that I have originated more legislation and led more initiatives in 2 terms than any other councilmember has, ever: The 2013 Safe Grow legislation and electoral reforms (in partnership with Tim Male); the Young Activist Act of 2014 banning polystyrene and this year’s business recycling bill; leadership of Takoma Junction revitalization from vision to choice of a top-tier developer and winning a soon-to-be-built Takoma Junction crosswalk (in earlier stages in partnership with Kay Daniels-Cohen with a strong assist from Tim); Sunday library hours (with Kay) and advancing library renovation; creation of the Lifelong Takoma program; council leadership in the fight against over-development at the Takoma Metro station, Montgomery College, and Washington Adventist University; critical early support for the commercial kitchen at the Takoma Park Presbyterian Church (before the project was expanded); steps toward tackling congestion that included hiring of a new half-time parking enforcement officer (with support from Kate Stewart); helping bring millions in funding to city projects as the city’s representative on the Transportation Planning Board; and more.
So I’ll leave office in November on that high note, and continue working for you until then.
The best to all,Seth
Kate Stewart is now the only candidate running for mayor. Peter Kovar is the only announced Ward 1 candidate. That could change, of course, but for right now both look like big favorites.