By Greg Stanton

Phoenix City Councilman, District 6

    It has been my honor to serve the people of District 6 on the Phoenix City Council for the past nine years. As someone who strongly believes in the importance of public service, I have sincerely and wholeheartedly enjoyed every minute of my time on council.

     Recently Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard asked me to join his office as Deputy Attorney General for the remainder of his term. After much soul searching, I made one of the hardest decisions of my life in accepting this position. The position of Deputy Attorney General allows me to continue my public service by supporting law enforcement in Arizona.

 

I will not be leaving the City Council until after we vote on the proposed city budget, which will include changes to the current 2008-09 budget and the proposed 2009-10 budget. The budget vote is scheduled for Feb. 3. Thereafter, the mayor and City Council will select someone to fulfill the remainder of my current term, which was scheduled to end this September. The District 6 city council seat will be a part of the elections in September 2009 for a regular four-year term. I will work with whoever is selected to finish the last months of my term to ensure the transition is seamless.

    If I have had success as a member of council, it is because of the consistent support I have received from community leaders in District 6 and the professionalism and hard work of the District 6 staff with whom I have served for nine years. Their dedication to the people of the district and “doing the right thing” impressed me every day. Together we’ve been able to accomplish many things we can all be proud of.

    On a personal note, those who know me know I love people. The job of city councilman has afforded me the opportunity to interact everyday with people who care passionately about the future of our city. I love Phoenix and I am optimistic that with the right leadership and choices, Phoenix will take its place as a truly great international city. I will stay in close contact with the community leaders I have grown close to and admire so much.

    Though I leave the City Council now, my commitment to public service, now and in the future, remains as strong as ever.