Personal commitments and timing factor into Mayor Brant Burrow decision
NEW DUBLIN — After eight years in office, Elizabethtown-Kitley Mayor Brant Burrow has announced he will not seek re-election this fall, saying the decision, while difficult, comes at the right time.
“I have reached my decision, so there is no point in keeping anyone guessing,” Burrow said, noting he wanted to give others time to consider entering the race ahead of the nomination deadline.
The nomination period runs from May 1 to Aug. 21 at 2 p.m.
Burrow, who had originally envisioned serving three terms, said stepping away was not something he did in haste.
“As I am sure you can appreciate, it was not an easy or quick decision,” he shared with Hometown News in a followup email.
He said he will not be endorsing a successor at this stage.
“I can’t really endorse anyone at the moment, as the nomination period is not even open and we don’t know who the choices are,” Burrow said. “Elections are a job interview. We should pick the best person, based on their merits, from everyone who applies.”
During his two terms, Burrow pointed to a mix of visible projects and behind-the-scenes work, including the construction of the Station 3 Fire Hall in Toledo, increased housing development, and improvements to the township’s financial position and long-term planning.
“I am very proud of putting the township on a more prudent and sustainable path,” he said.
Burrow also cited personal commitments and a potential professional opportunity as factors in his decision not to run again, noting the significant time required to campaign.
Looking ahead, he said the next chapter is still taking shape.
“I’m not trying to be cagey, but I can’t really expand on the next chapter of my life just yet,” he shared with Hometown News. “It has only just started to come into view on the horizon and it may not come to fruition.”
Still, he struck a confident tone about what comes next.
“Regardless, I will land on my feet,” Burrow said. “I have always made my own way in life. The past eight years have been fulfilling, and I will continue to work hard for the community right up to the last day. But this is the right decision for me.”
Keep connected to your community—Read the latest Elizabethtown-Kitley news.
