Days after his campaign website leaked, former Amarillo Globe News publisher and founding chair of Downtown Amarillo Inc has formally announced his campaign for Amarillo City Council Place 4.

Simpson, in his press release, noted the following points of focus for his campaign:

Make it easier for business owners to thrive and grow
Improve Customer Service (trash pick up, roads and infrastructure)
Improve accountability, transparency and communication
Prioritize Public Safety and keeping neighborhoods safe
Keep taxes low and cut wasteful spending
Consider Amarillo citizens first

The press release mentions his involvement with the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, Young Life, United Way of Amarillo, the WTAMU foundation, and First Presbyterian Church. Absent from the list is any mention of his involvement with Downtown Amarillo Inc, which was a spearhead organization in the controversial downtown revitalization project. Also absent is any mention of his involvement with the Amarillo Local Government Corporation.

As of writing, Simpson has not filed for a place on the ballot with the city. Marine veteran and philanthropist Hobert “Gunny” Brown is the only candidate in the race for Place 4 who has filed. Former Potter County Justice of the Peace Rich Herman has also teased a run for the seat on social media. Howard Smith, who currently holds Place 4, has already announced he will not be running for another term.

The deadline for candidates to file for a place on the ballot is February 17th at 5:00 pm. Election Day is May 6th.