Chattanooga District 5 City Councilman Russell Gilbert officially announced his 2021 candidacy for city mayor Monday, promising “fresh ideas.”
In a news release on Monday afternoon, Gilbert confirmed he will run for the open seat in 2021 after more than 11 years on the council.
“Serving the 5th District community has been my honor. I have consistently and diligently worked for positive change in my community and beyond and I believe it is now time for me to step forward and seek the office of Mayor of Chattanooga,” Gilbert wrote. “My strong roots in our city have deeply connected me with the community. I am bringing fresh ideas and positive solutions for all of our citizens. I have worked and raised my family here my entire life and my experience as an elected four term official has allowed me to hear the concerns of our city. My service to the public has equipped me with the knowledge and experience I will draw from to implement ways to work together; by creating an environment of tolerance and inclusion for all people.”
In the release, Gilbert touts his history on the council and as chairman of the city’s human resources committee, where he says he fought disparity and promises to continue his fight for social issues as mayor.
“My goal is to be instrumental in helping our city to continue to thrive and prepare for the future. I understand the issues that face our city,” the release reads. “I will focus my efforts on four very important key issues that will strengthen and unite our city: safety, economic growth, fair housing, and infrastructure.”