City councillor Bryan Anderson won't run again

Bryan Anderson, an Edmonton city councillor since 1998, says he won't run in the October municipal election.

Anderson, who represents Ward 9 in the city's southwest, revealed his decision at a news conference on Monday.

"I am proud of the fact that I have managed the sport and recreation initiative for 12 years with a mission statement 'to improve the quality and quantity of sport and recreation infrastructure and opportunities for Edmontonians,' which has seen well over $1 billion invested in sport, recreation, and library infrastructure," he said in a news release.

The former teachersaid he is also proud of other city accomplishments during his time on council, including a leisure access program which helps low-income Edmontonians use city-owned recreation facilities.

Anderson recounted his first day on the job back in 1998 when he introduced himself to then newly re-elected councillor Leroy Chahley, whose advice was simply. "Do your reading."

When I go home and sit down, the day feels like it's been productive.- Coun. Bryan Anderson

Thatadvice proved to be extremely important and beneficial, and served him well for almost two decades, said Anderson.

By leaving now, Anderson said he's reminded ofa lesson learned from his motherto "leave the party while you're having fun."

"I am still looking forward every morning to coming to work, " he said. "When I go home and sit down, the day feels like it's been productive."

Potential Ward 9 candidates lining up

Eight people have come to talk to Anderson about potentially running to replace him.So far, four people have formally filed notices of intentto allow their names to stand for Ward 9councillorin the Oct. 16 municipal election.

"I was quite pleased that there seems to be some really good, solid, seriously candidates that are going to vieto represent Ward 9 in this next election," said Anderson.

Under the old six-ward system, Anderson was one of two councillors representing Ward 5.

He has represented Ward 9 since 2010 when the city went to 12 wards.

"Einstein said wisdom is common sense in action, and I hope I've been wise," he said. "When I walk out the door I hope people say, 'He was helpful.' "