Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson has announced that he will not be seeking a fourth term in office.

Stimpson, who has led Mobile for over ten years, revealed his decision in a video released on Wednesday.  The Mayor said that he is hoping to spend more time with his family, particularly his wife and fourteen grandchildren.

“I first decided to run for mayor of Mobile more than a dozen years ago. I did so only after consulting with my family and close friends and spending a lot of time in prayer seeking the Lord’s guidance,” recalled Stimpson. “In 2013, it was the honor of a lifetime when the citizens of Mobile elected me as the city’s 108th mayor and have honored me twice more with reelection in my third term as mayor.”

Stimpson told voters that he would be clear in his decision to seek or not seek a fourth term in office.

“When asked if I would run again, I said, I’m running for reelection unless I tell you I’m not. Today, after much consideration and prayer, I’m letting you know that I will not seek reelection. You’ve given me the honor of taking on historical challenges and turning them into opportunities for our future.”

He credited his team for their large role in the city’s recent success but said more remains to be accomplished

“One of the reasons we had success is the assembly of an unbelievably talented team of dedicated city employees who work tirelessly with one focus, and that’s to unite all corners of this city into one Mobile, a safer, more business and family-friendly city.”

During his tenure in office, Stimpson experienced trying times but believes that it was all worth it.

“Certainly, a job like this comes with challenges and frustrations, but the rewards of seeing our city move forward, improving our financial strength, increasing pay for all city employees, charting a course for a vibrant economy and a bright future. They all outweigh the testing times, so it’s simply time to pass the baton.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten