For the second time this week, an incumbent Capital Region mayor has decided against seeking another term.
Like Troy’s Lou Rosamilia, Cohoes Mayor George Primeau has announced he won’t seek another term. A week ago, the Spindle City Mayor was laying plans to run for re-election. Now, Primeau changed his mind. Speaking Thursday afternoon, he says he will not seek re-election due to non-political reasons: "I've been through many elections and was constantly ready for that 'one more,' and especially this election. Because my team meant so much to me and I wanted to sit there represented. That was my plan, but my plans have changed. Sometimes by choice, sometimes by circumstance, things have a way of changing. Those around me have noticed I haven't sounded so good in recent months, and I have undergone a series of tests. While I feel better than I sound, test results and recent medical consultations have resulted in a change of plans for me. I regret to say I will not be seeking re-election as mayor of the city of Cohoes."
Primeau emphasizes he's not in any sort of "medical crisis" and fully plans to complete his term. "There are realities and risks I simply cannot ignore. If there is a chance I cannot give this job 110 percent, I need to let it go. After deep soul searchin' and family discussion, I believe this is the right thing to do."
The Troy Record says it is expected that long-time Cohoes Police Chief Bill Heslin will run for the post. Heslin says there have been many rumors around the city. He says the mayor has been his colleague and friend for many years. "I'm planning on retiring but I'm not planning on not serving the city in whatever capacity the people would want me to. I would certainly leave it up to them. I would be proud and honored to serve in any capacity that the citizens would want me to.”
Heslin says he would look to Primeau "for any advice" heading down the road. There's word that at least one council member is interested in taking the reins of city government: Dianne Nolin reportedly plans to announce her future political intentions on Friday.
A Democrat, Primeau was first acting mayor of the Hudson River city of about 16,000; his predecessor, John MacDonald, resigned to take a seat in the state Assembly. He also spent several years on the common council.
Mayoral Announcement from Cohoes Mayor George Primeau
Cohoes, N.Y.- While the demands and responsibilities of the Mayor’s office have kept me very occupied, I understand the primary election season will soon be upon us and it has always been my intention to seek another term as Mayor. I’m proud of what has been accomplished and excited about so many initiatives and projects. I believe these are very good times for Cohoes, be it a strong and stable financial standing, substantial housing growth, public safety, wonderful community events which bring us together and most importantly a sense of community and civic pride.
I’ve been blessed with a great team and surrounded by people who care about this city. Not only during my years as Mayor but since joining the city council 15 years ago; So many dedicated council members, city workers, volunteers, and of course none of it works without the support of my family. I’m beyond grateful.
During that time I’ve been through many elections and was confidently ready for one more. That was my plan. But plans change; Sometimes by choice and sometimes by circumstance.
Those around me have noticed I’ve not sounded so good in recent months and I have undergone a series of tests. While I feel better than I sound, test results and recent medical consultations have resulted in a change of plans.
I regret to say I will not be seeking re-election as Mayor of Cohoes. I don’t believe I’m in a medical crisis and fully plan on completing my term, but cannot seek 4 more years. This has not been an easy decision but there are realities and risks I simply cannot ignore.
If there’s a chance I cannot give this job 100%, I need to let it go. After deep soul searching and family discussion I believe this is the right thing to do.
This decision has absolutely nothing to do with politics but everything to do with my health and my family. Having said that, be assured my concern for Cohoes has not lessened. I’ll be around; In the mayor’s office for the next 9 months and a few blocks west back to Primeau’s Auto Body after that. This is home for me, my children, and my grandchildren. I’m not going anywhere!
The beliefs which led me to public service are as strong as ever and I will always be involved in my community.
It’s important that this year be a very good year. And it’s important that there be a smooth transition to ensure the progress we’ve made continue. I emphasize the progress WE’VE made because this is a team effort with many members of our team right here in this room.
I again thank everyone who has been there not just for me, but for our community. It has been an honor and privilege to serve. I intend to finish the year strong and stay positive.
