Schwartzman Announces Mayoral Bid

It's official. Councilman Alan Schwartzman announced Thursday that he is running for mayor of Benicia. He made his announcement in an email.

In it, Schwartzman said he has talked to family and friends and "that there is broad consensus for a change in leadership."

The statement goes on to say that he looks forward to "bringing the word common back into common sense governing."

Following is the full text of Schwartzman's email:

There has been rumor and speculation about me running for mayor this year. Put the rumors to rest. I am formally announcing my candidacy  to become the next mayor of Benicia. This decision did not come lightly. Discussions with family, friends and many community and business leaders have confirmed my thoughts that there is broad consensus for a change in leadership. I believe I have the experience, knowledge and skills to guide the city through the current economic crisis with the aim of efficient operations, a balanced budget and healthy reserve for the long term, position the city to take advantage of the inevitable economic rebound, all without sacrificing services. I am proud of my contributions over the past six years and look forward to bringing the word "common" back into common sense governing. Stay tuned for more information as the campaign unfolds.

Patch will update this story as more details become known.