After leading the city through unprecedented growth over the past decade, Mayor Dave Bronconnier will step down at the end of this term.
In a surprise announcement yesterday during the annual State of the City address, Bronconnier declared he will not seek a fourth term and will enter “private life.”
“I didn’t get into politics to cut ribbons; I got into politics to get things done … and I have a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment because the goal set in 2001 has largely been reached,” Bronconnier said.
He wouldn’t say what spurred the decision, only that he wanted to let Calgarians know in a timely fashion.
“I felt that it was important to let citizens know early on what my intentions were and that those seeking to be the 36th mayor of Calgary have sufficient time.”
Bronconnier wouldn’t throw his support behind anyone when asked by reporters, but fired a parting shot across the bow by stating “great cities are not built by those who say ‘no.’”
Aldermen had kind words to describe Bronconnier, including Ward 12 Ald. Ric McIver.
“I think this is a good day to reflect on all the things the mayor has accomplished over the last eight years. He has won every major battle that I know of and he deserves credit for that,” McIver said.
Ward 7 Ald. Druh Farrell echoed the sentiment.
“It’s been an honour working with Dave and our council has achieved an extraordinary amount under his tenure,” Farrell said. “I believe the city is better because of him.”
