Fairbanks borough mayor won’t run for re-election

KARL KASSEL SAYS HE’S DONE

Fairbanks North Star Borough Mayor Karl W. Kassel issued the following announcement today:

“After much consideration with my wife and family, I have decided that due to personal reasons, I will not seek re-election as Mayor when my term ends in October 2018. I deeply love this community and have high hopes for the continuation of the good work that the borough does. The FNSB is in good hands with the Assembly and the staff, and I’m confident I will leave the Borough in a good place so the community can continue to move forward for generations to come. Even with the current economic and fiscal challenges, I want the borough to remain a good place to live, work and raise a family. I have spent over 30 years dedicated to working for the borough, as Parks & Recreation Director, on the Borough Assembly and now as Borough Mayor. I hope that by making this announcement early, more candidates will come forward and consider the position. I’ve been honored to serve as the Borough Mayor.”

Kassel, a Democrat, took office in 2015 and was preceded by Democrat Luke Hopkins.

This story will be updated.