The Jefferson City mayoral race is already kicking off, two months before filing is set to begin.
Bob Scrivner, current 3rd Ward councilman, announced his candidacy for mayor Monday, just a few days after current Mayor Eric Struemph announced he would not seek re-election due to health issues and family responsibilities. Scrivner also serves as president pro tempore for the council, meaning he acts as mayor when Struemph is unable to attend a meeting.
Scrivner, who has served on the council since 2008, said he's been considering running for mayor for a while.
"I've had a number of people approach me and ask if I would consider," Scrivner said.
Scrivner said Struemph's announcement did not have anything to do with his decision, though he noted he had a feeling Struemph would not run for a second term.
Scrivner said he sees the mayor's role as setting the tone for the city and creating a positive feeling about the community.
"There's some things that I would like to change," Scrivner said.
He said he would like to open the lines of communication with the state and continue both Struemph and former Mayor John Landwehr's work on improving communication with Lincoln University and the county.
When asked why he chose to announce his candidacy now, Scrivner said he wanted to let others who might be considering running for the office know in case his candidacy would affect their decision.
In a press release, Scrivner cited his experience working with council members and two mayors throughout his years on the council, as well as a number of city projects he has been part of including efforts to revitalize downtown and the Capital Mall.
"My decision to run for mayor is driven by my desire to ensure that our city is a better place to live and work for everyone and to see Jefferson City's economy grow," Scrivner said in the release. "If the voters of Jefferson City elect me as mayor, I will re-emphasize my focus on economic development within Jefferson City, including retaining and expanding existing businesses while attracting new business development to Jefferson City."
Filing for city offices officially begins Dec. 16.