Edmonton Coun. Jane Batty to retire from politics
Batty represented downtown ward for four terms
Coun. Jane Batty announced Monday she will not seek re-election in the October 2013 Edmonton civic election after 12 years on council.
"I'm feeling a bit emotional this morning," she told reporters at city hall Monday. "I didn't think I would. I've been on council for 12 years and it's been an amazing journey working with the mayor and my colleagues in moving the city forward."
Batty, who represented Ward 6, credited a "united city council, a mayor with a strong vision and a strong provincial and local economy" in helping the city move forward during her terms on council.
"Over the past 12 years, Edmonton has made tremendous advancements on multiple fronts: sustainable economic growth through cooperative regional planning, enhanced public transportation that connects all sectors of the city with downtown as the hub, and a revitalized downtown."
Batty said she was also proud to contribute to the renewal of Edmonton's inner-city communities such as McCauley, Central MacDougall and Queen Mary Park and in reducing homelessness in the city.
Batty said it's time for new people with fresh ideas, though she'll miss the friendships she's made.
Her announcement comes a week after three-term mayor Mandel rejected running for a fourth term as mayor last week.
Coun. Kerry Diotte is giving up his seat to take a run at the mayor's office while Coun. Amarjeet Sohi announced last week he will run for council again.