Municipal election nomination packages for Prince George are now available, and local politicians are weighing in on their campaign plans.
Mayor Dan Rogers said he plans to seek a second term as mayor, and will officially announce later this fall while unveiling his platform.
"I still think voters want us to get back to our priorities... paying attention to our core infrastructure, including roads, and making sure we are representing the taxpayer," Rogers said.
The official nomination period is Oct. 4 to Oct. 14. Advance polls will open Nov. 9 and the general voting day will be Nov. 19.
So far, Rogers is the only candidate to express interest in the mayor's seat.
Former city councillor Don Zurowski, who challenged Rogers in the 2008 election, said he has no plans for another run at the mayor's office.
"I did that last time, and I didn't get it," Zurowski said. "Incumbent mayors have a competitive advantage, so I'll leave it to them."
Despite a conviction under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the possibility of a censure by his colleagues, Coun. Brian Skakun has pledged to seek a fourth term in November.
Coun. Murry Krause will be seeking his fourth consecutive term - his fifth term on council overall - this November.
"I think economic development and jobs are important," Krause said. "Quality of life issues like the performing arts centre will also be important [this election]."
Earlier this year, four-term city councilor Don Bassermann announced he will not be seeking reelection this fall.
One-term councillors Garth Frizzell, Cameron Stolz, Shari Green and Dave Wilbur are currently playing their cards close to the chest about any reelection ambitions.
"I think we're all focuses on the mandate we currently have," Stolz said. "It's far too soon to be talking reelection."
Coun. Debora Munoz could not be reached for comment as of press time.
Former B.C. Northern Real Estate Board executive director Dorothy Friesen will be making her first attempt to win a seat on council. Friesen said she hopes to bring council's focus back on solid planning and fiscal responsibility.
"There has been a lot of side issues that have distracted council," she said. "We have to make sure anything we are spending is in the best interests of the taxpayers."
Rumours that Albert Koehler, former Prince George Chamber of Commerce president and Tribotec International CEO, is considering a city council run are, "still rumours," according to Koehler.
Former city councillor Glen "Moose" Scott said several community members have asked him to run again for city council, but he hasn't made his decision yet. Scott lost his seat on council in 2008 after two terms on council.
"I really have to figure out if I want to put in all the time once again to be a city councillor," Scott said. "I'll have to discuss it with my family. Family comes first."
Perennial city council candidate Eugene Fetterly said his nomination status won't be revealed until, "the day the nominations close."
Prince George School District chairman Lyn Hall is also rumoured to have interest in moving over to City Hall. However, Hall said he is still considering his options.
Former Baldy Hughes executive director Marshall Smith expressed interest in running for city council earlier this year, but is now backing away to focus on his work for Northern Supportive Recovery Society.
"At this time in my life and career, I've decided I should focus my energies on the women's addiction treatment centre," Smith said. "[But] it's not out of the question for the future."
An official list of candidates will not be available until after the Oct. 14 deadline for nominations.
