Street not running for mayor

Former Mayor John Street, who sparked rumors that he would run for mayor or an at-large council seat when he switched his registration from Democrat to Independent, said today in an e-mail to the Inquirer that he would not seek either office.

The deadline for filing nominating petitions to get on the November ballot as an Independent is Monday, August 1. Street, who lectures at Temple, has been aiding an ongoing orientation offered to 10 council candidates vying to be part of a large freshman class (as many as seven could win election and take office in January). He also says he's helping GOP mayoral candidate Karen Brown.

Here is Street's e-mail, in its entirety:

I have decided not to be a candidate for any public office in the general election notwithstanding a great deal of very enthusiastic support for both Mayor and city council at large.

As you know I spent 28yrs in local government having held the most responsible locally elected offices dealing with the city's biggest challenges. It was a thrilling experience. We had some great successes. I worked with some talented people.

I decline to run not because I feel too old or lack the energy. Frankly I have never felt better and maintain an intense passion for local government. I intend to stay active and will do so in a very direct and organized way which I will announce shortly.

However . . .

I enjoy teaching almost as much as I enjoyed my considerable responsibility in local government. Temple is a great University and it's a challenge and special opportunity to work with the faculty and staff in the political science department preparing some of the world's best students for future leadership in the country.

My decision was in part driven by my interest in traveling and spending more time with my family including my wife , 4 children and 4 grandchildren. Family has always been important to me and having the opportunity to cultivate relationships with grand children is a unique part of life.

I will continue to work with Tom Massaro in the most comprehensive non partisan orientation for new elected officials I have ever seen. This or a similar course should be required of all newly elected officials.

I have agreed to voluntarily share some of my experience with Karen Brown who is as sincere , enthusiastic and hard working a candidate I have ever seen. She deserves the full support of the republican party which could be considerable if the powers in that party decide to cooperate in her effort to make the general election a competitive and worthwhile experience for the citizens of our city.

I'm humbled by the wide spread show of support from the many folks who offered to volunteer , fund raise or otherwise work in a campaign.

Unfortunately running for public office is inconsistent with my immediate plans - maybe another time.

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