Pella Mayor Jim Mueller has announced he isn’t running for office this November. Mueller has been mayor since 2012, and previously served on the city council for two terms. In the City of Pella June newsletter, Mueller said he felt two terms was an appropriate amount of time. In his letter, Mueller highlighted several accomplishments during his time, including an overhaul of the city’s water supply, completion of the city’s underground electric conversion, construction of the Pella Sports Park, and several other projects the council has supported. He also expressed excitement about several ongoing and upcoming initiatives, including expanded housing incentives for new subdivisions, development of the upcoming telecommunications utility, plans to redevelop Oskaloosa Street, a renovation or replacement for the Pella Community Center, and the ongoing regional airport project. He encourages motivated individuals in the community to get involved with the council or to run as mayor this fall.

“I have chosen to make this announcement early in the year to provide time for individuals to consider serving this community in an elected position,” Mueller stated.

Mueller says serving on the council or as mayor requires a vision for the future and patience. The filing period for city council elections is August 26th through September 19th.