Sander won't seek mayoral re-election regardless of outcome in county clerk race

For the first time in 14 years, Paul Sander will not seek re-election as mayor of Jackson in April 2007.

Sander is in a race for Cape Girardeau County clerk against Kara Clark, director of sales for the Cape Girardeau Convention and Visitors Bureau. With no Democratic candidate, the Republican primary election on Aug. 8 will determine the winner.

Regardless of the outcome of the clerk's race, Sander said he will not seek re-election as Jackson's mayor based on a family decision.

"My family and I are totally committed to the county clerk's race," he said.

Sander also believes it's time to serve the public on a full-time basis. The office of mayor is considered a part-time job and pays $250 per month. The Cape Girardeau County clerk position is a full-time job that pays $63,436 per year.

"I'm overjoyed and proud to have served Jackson for 14 years as mayor. But 14 years is long enough," Sander said.

Unlike Cape Girardeau, which allows a mayor to serve two four-year term limits, the city of Jackson has no term limit for the office of mayor.

During his time in office, Sander said he is most pleased with his involvement on improving the city's infrastructure and transportation. "Many of the major projects we've worked on in the last 14 years are coming to a reality," he said. "It's been enjoyable to work for a city that's one of the most progressive in the state."

If Sander wins the race for county clerk, he will continue to serve as Jackson's mayor until the end of the year. In January, the Board of Aldermen would need to appoint an interim mayor until the April municipal elections.

Two current aldermen in Jackson have expressed an interest in the mayor's seat. Ward 1 Alderwoman Barbara Lohr, a four-year member of the board, and Ward 2 Alderman Kerry Hoffman, a 12-year member of the board, will both consider their options in December.

jfreeze@semissourian.com

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