Woodson will not seek third term

Bedford County Mayor Jimmy Woodson announced Wednesday that he does not intend to seek a third term and planned to withdraw his name from the ballot by the noon deadline today. Instead, Woodson will run for a county commission seat from the Fourth District, which he represented from 1984 to 1990.

"I would have liked the opportunity to serve for another term," said Woodson, "but current family situations and preferences will not allow our family to commit the time and resources necessary to effectively participate in a county-wide campaign at this time." The position of county mayor was known as county executive when Woodson was first elected in September 1998; state legislation changed the name to clarify the nature of the position. Woodson said he has enjoyed the opportunity to serve and that he has been pleased with the cooperation of other elected officials during his term.

In a statement announcing his intentions, Woodson thanked God for giving him the health, wisdom and ability to hold office and expressed love and appreciation to his wife Charlene, daughter Melody and mother Pauline. He thanked his office staff for their service and loyalty and thanked all of his supporters.

"I have enjoyed meeting many new people in Bedford County," said Woodson, "and throughout the great state of Tennessee. I look forward to starting another new chapter in my life, and I hope it will include being of service to the public, either part-time or full-time. I certainly plan to offer my cooperation in the transition process with the next administration, once that candidate is elected."

Unless others drop out of the race, Eugene Ray will face Wayne Tucker for the Democratic nomination for mayor in the May 2 primary. The winner of that race will face independent Michael Fisher in the August general election.

Woodson had submitted petitions last week, prior to Tuesday's deadline, for both the mayor's race and the county commission race.