CLEVELAND, Tenn. — A two-term Cleveland city councilwoman will not seek re-election.
Bambi Hines’ current term ends in September.
“I want to take the time to enjoy some of the things I’ve missed,” Ms. Hines told fellow council members this week.
She spoke with emotion as she made the announcement.
“As you can tell, this has been a difficult decision,” she said, taking time to dry her eyes.
During her council service, Ms. Hines also has worked at several hospitals as a critical care registered nurse and as a dental hygienist at the same time.
She said the council has worked to accomplish many goals over the last eight years, including building new schools and a police services center.
Even during controversy and disagreement, Ms. Hines said, “we have the professionalism to argue and debate certain issues and vote against one another and then shake hands and start out fresh without holding a grudge.”
Mayor Tom Rowland and council members praised her hard work on the council.
“We haven’t always voted together, but I’ve always had respect for you,” Councilman David May said.
“She always asks tough questions to city staff but that’s part of the job,” Councilman Richard Banks said.
Two people have qualified to run for the District 1 seat.
Floyd Wade was previously the 1st District councilman until Ms. Hines unseated him.
Charlie McKenzie is a county constable seeking re-election to that position while also running for the City Council seat.
Last week, Bradley County election commissioners decided that Mr. McKenzie can be a candidate for both positions but will have to choose one or the other if he wins both.
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