Amarillo City Hall | Photo by Noah Dawson

Katt Massey, a former assistant to Mayor Ginger Nelson, filed today to join retired businessman Tom Scherlen in the open race for Amarillo City Council Place 3.

Massey, who left her position as assistant to the mayor in June of last year to become a beautification and public art coordinator for the city, is also listed as a member of the board of directors for Center City of Amarillo, Inc., an organization known for playing a central role in the controversial downtown revitalization efforts.

So far, the only candidates to have filed to run for the office are Massey and Scherlen. Scherlen, a retired businessman and conservative political activist, has made a name for himself as a leader of successful campaigns against local tax increases. Incumbent Eddy Sauer, who was nearly defeated by Scherlen two years ago, has already indicated he will not seek reelection.

As of writing, Massey’s ballot application is being reviewed by city officials. If approved, Massey’s filing means there are no city races expected to be uncontested. All other races except for Place 4 have multiple candidates who have filed for office. In Place 4, only marine veteran Hobert “Gunny” Brown has filed to run, though former Amarillo Globe News publisher Les Simpson has also announced his intention to run for the seat.