Stephen Mandel announced just seconds after 11 a.m. Tuesday he will not run for a fourth term. Now, the downtown arena project is set in stone, thanks to last week’s city council
ratifying the agreement, Mandel feels it’s time to retire.
Maybe,
he doesn’t have the strength — physically and mentally — for another monumental
project, namely the downtown arena project.
But
he’s 67. It’s time, perhaps, for him to share some time with his family. Maybe
travel. Or walk in Edmonton’s river valley, look all around him, and feel the
pride of the city help build.
Mandel
goes out on top, with many wanting him to run for another term — one he’d
probably win.
The
big question now is who will guide Edmonton come fall when the next civic election
rolls around.
But
let’s not worry about that today.
Let’s
celebrate and honor a man who has shared his vision with us; a man who has
shown compassion, toughness and boldness.
Mandel
deserves a parting gift, something that will mirror his work as mayor.
Maybe,
a new road around the downtown arena. Call it Mandel Way.
Because
that’s how he made Edmonton grow.
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