Here's the official press release on today's baton passing ... not from those involved, but from Peritus.

Dear Dave Matthews,

Tell you what.

Give me someone on the ballot who (a) is younger than 60, and (b) not named Rebecca Gardenhour or Lee Ann Wiseheart, and I'll consider it.

Even Cruella de Valla.

Seriously. It should gladden your heart to know that the organized opposition has ceased to exist, and receiving notice of today's political announcement via a PR firm in Louisville has me (a) looking for a barf bag, and (b) wishing I could live somewhere else.

Thanks,

R

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:


Media Contact:
Hailee Lampert
(502) 510-2349
hlampert@perituspr.com

Mayor Doug England Will Not Seek Reelection; England Endorses Local Businessman Irv Stumler to be Next Mayor of New Albany

New Albany, Ind. (January 19, 2011) – After serving three terms as Mayor of the City of New Albany, Doug England has decided not to seek another term in office, effective at the end of his current term. England announced Wednesday he would not be seeking reelection, stating he would like to begin focusing on his personal life.

“My family and I have given it great thought,” England said. “My wife has seen how the stress has weighed on me, and she wants me back. We both feel strongly that the next chapter of my life should be spent with our grandchildren who are quickly growing up.”

Following his announcement, England endorsed local businessman Irv Stumler for New Albany Mayor. Stumler has had numerous successful business ventures in energy, security, food services and contracting. He currently serves on the city’s Economic Development Commission, is actively involved in the Silver Hills Neighborhood Association and maintains numerous contacts across Kentucky, Indiana and the U.S. Stumler oversaw $1.5 million in renovations at St. Mary’s Church. In addition, Stumler’s family business relocated to New Albany in 2008, bringing with it up to 150 jobs.

“In these critical times, I cannot think of a better person to serve this city and help to continue attracting good-paying jobs to our community than Irv Stumler,” England said.

“I am honored to have the confidence and unwavering support of Mayor Doug England,” said Stumler. “Mayor England has truly been a leader and an inspiration as a public servant. I look forward to furthering the path he has set for New Albany’s future.”

England served two consecutive terms beginning in 1992, and then was elected in 2007 to serve a third term as New Albany’s mayor. During his most recent term, England worked diligently to balance and reduce the city’s operating budgets – General Fund, Street Department and Sanitation – while resisting public safety layoffs and facility closures.

In addition, England was integral in the development of the new, riverfront amphitheater and in the Spring Street Hill Road Reconstruction Project, and he facilitated several business start-ups, relocations and expansions throughout the city. Also, at his urging, the Common Council established the New Albany Bicentennial Commission.

“In just two years, New Albany will celebrate its bicentennial,” Stumler said. “Our city has come a long way, but there is more work to be done. I hope to continue the work Mayor England has achieved and further New Albany’s excellent record of job attraction.”

England will continue serving as Mayor through December 31, 2011.