Mayor Paul Harpole is calling it quits after three terms as Amarillo's mayor.
"Because I am encouraged by some of the people who have stepped up to run [for mayor], I will not seek re-election." Harpole said during his press conference.
Harpole spoke about downtown redevelopment and other issues including water rights during his press conference today. Harpole's press conference included various media outlets, as the three term mayor announced that he would be retiring. Harpole did say, however, that he plans to continue his role as mayor, until the end of his term.
Harpole was first elected Mayor of Amarillo, in 2011, after finishing a term as city commissioner, 2 years earlier. Harpole claimed 77 percent of the vote in 2011, emerging from the crowded 11 candidate field. In 2013, Harpole also won re-election by a large margin, defeating Terry Baughman with 82 percent of the vote. In 2015, Harpole was nearly toppled by salvage yard specialist Roy McDowell, who claimed 46 percent, against
Harpole's 54 percent.
Following the announcement, speculation immediately began on who may step up to run for Mayor. Restaurateur Victor Leal and City Councilmember Randy Burkett have both been speculated as potential entries into the race for mayor.
Currently, announced candidates for the office include Grasshoppers Bounce House owner Jeremy Bryant, artist Renea Dauntes, and attorney Ginger Nelson.
For more information about the race for mayor, please visit amarillo.gov.
