Davenport will seek reelection as mayor
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Davenport will seek his fourth term as mayor, having served two consecutive two-year terms in the late ’80s, as well as a four-year term since 2000.
He cited a commitment to the massive downtown revitalization project and a promise of a welcome home party for members of the National Guard unit as two reasons for running again.
“I made that decision based on the downtown project,” Davenport said. “I think we need to see that through and I don’t think now would be a good time to change major leadership,” he added moments after board members approved a bid of almost $4 million for the first phase of construction on Main Street.
The mayor also cited an informal discussion with members of the local National Guard unit just before they left for up to two years of active duty and were expected to head to Iraq.
“I told them I would be here and make sure we did whatever they wanted to do,” said Davenport, who is a Vietnam veteran, of a welcoming party upon the unit’s return.
Besides the mayor’s position, there are three aldermen slots open this year. Vice Mayor Patti Nunley also announced Thursday she would seek another term.
“I have enjoyed serving on the city board,” Nunley said. “We do have lots of things planned in addition to Main Street. We are in the talking stages now about continuing the greenway and I think we are about to possibly face some challenging changes in this community and I would like the opportunity to be part of them.”
Alderman Jimmy Bonner also announced he would seek re-election and has picked up a petition. Newcomer Gary T. Hillis has also picked up a petition, while Alderman Donald Hillis said Friday he was undecided.
Elections Administrator Donna Yates said the filing deadline for candidates for city positions in McMinnville, Morrison and Viola is Aug. 19.