City Councilor Rick Lipof sent this letter to supporters today..
After serious consideration I have decided that now is not the right time for me to run for the office of Mayor. I would like to announce that I will be seeking re-election to the Council as my passion to continue to serve as an at-large Councilor is stronger than ever. I am thankful and grateful to the City for allowing me the honor to represent our community.
I wish to continue lending my 28 years of real estate valuation and consulting knowledge to the Land Use process, especially the Northland proposal to develop over 28 acres on Needham Street and to the ongoing transformation of the N-Squared innovation District. Civic engagement in our decision process is key and I wish to continue to be a conduit in producing the best possible outcomes as our city evolves. I also want to help complete ongoing reforms including implementing a new zoning code, and continue my work on transportation, infrastructure and housing plans that benefit all.
I look forward to working with our next mayor to help him/her be successful for all of us and to protect the safety and well-being of all our citizens as well as the financial stability of our city as we look to the future.
Respectfully,
Rick Lipof
Councilor At-Large, City of Newton
One of the best parts of my first term has been developing a friendship with Rick. I respect his judgment, especially on land use and economic development, and I value the optimism and good cheer he brings to public service. This may not have been the right timing, but I expect that Rick will be a formidable candidate for mayor in the future.
I’m sorry to hear that Rick won’t be running. Still no word from Tracy though.
I have great respect for Rick as a Councilor and as a person. He and his family have been committed to public service and to Newton for two generations, and we’re a better city for it. I’m very happy to hear that he will be running for re-election to the City Council. I wish Rick the best in whatever paths he pursues in the future.
Ok then, surprise me – who’ll be running for Ruthanne’s open seat. Is that already quid pro quo? Scott’s got a lot of catchin’ up to do. What will be the political distractions from the City Council leadership agenda? Did you catch the mayoral grandstanding in tonite’s 2nd call discussion on debt service limit guidelines – Scott deep swallow on camera..
The Lipofs are a wonderful family. Rick is a nice guy, there’s no doubt he’ll run one day and I wish him all the best.
Rick is a class act, same can be said for the entire family. If he ever chooses to run, he will be a formidable candidate.
His contributions are a strong argument against term limits, on any level.
I’ve worked for Rick for 8 years and will tell you he is a man of Integrity. Rick has the ability to envision the future, Inspire others and is Results Oriented. He cares about our city. He cares about others and their visions as well. Rick is a very positive person and loves Action. He excites people to get involved and be part of the effort. Rick would make a fantastic mayor of our city!