Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Shane Blaser. Image courtesy: City of Wisconsin Rapids
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU) — Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Shane Blaser will not run for a third term in office.
“[I’ve been] thinking about it and evaluating. I decided that it was time for me to step away,” said Blaser. “For my family- I have a son in High School and I miss a lot of his events. I have a mom that I help out quite a bit. I feel it is the right time to let somebody else get off the bench and take a shot at it.”
Blaser’s announcement comes one week after the city opened the Room to Zoom Dog Park on Saratoga Street, which he considers to be one of his accomplishments over the last four years. Others include the city’s new transportation utility, which prevents property owners from having a special assessment levied against them for street work, and a behind-the-scenes restructuring of city staff.
He plans to make himself available to whoever wins the seat next to help move things forward. Blaser also notes that the city’s Executive Coordinator Emily Kent will be able to help integrate the new Mayor as well.
“If it is somebody I can support I will be there to help them out. [I also know] Emily will make that transition seamless. She’s well organized and whatever Mayor comes in will be in more than capable hands,” said Blaser.
Prospective candidates can announce their intentions at any time, though nominating petitions won’t be available until December 1st. Petitions will be due back the first week of January. Election day is April 2nd. A primary will be held in February if needed.
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