Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin has announced that he will not seek re-election this fall. Mayor Colvin, who has served as the city’s mayor since 2017, made the announcement today, citing a desire to focus on his family and business.

Mayor Colvin, Fayetteville’s longest-serving Black mayor, has held the position for four terms and previously served on the Fayetteville City Council. During his tenure, he has overseen significant economic development, including attracting investments from companies like Amazon and American Titanium Company, and the development of Segra Stadium. Additionally, he led the passage of a $35 million Parks and Recreation Bond and a $97 million bond package for public safety, infrastructure, and housing.

“While we’ve accomplished and grown the city so much during my time as Mayor, for everything there is a season,” said Mayor Colvin in a statement. He expressed gratitude to his family and the Fayetteville community for their support.

With Mayor Colvin’s decision not to run for re-election, several candidates have emerged. Current candidates for mayor include Freddie de la Cruz, current Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Keefe Jensen, and current District Three Councilman Mario Benavente. This election will determine who will lead Fayetteville into its next chapter.