by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Though still more than five months away from a vote, City Council member Faye Rustin announced her intentions last week to run for Council president.
Rustin joins previously announced candidates Reggie Fullwood and Elaine Brown.
In a letter addressed to the Council, Rustin wrote that her “service on each of the standing committees and various assignments basically covers every function in which the City Council is involved.”
Now in her second term, Rustin chairs the Council’s Audit Committee and has previously chaired the Land Use and Zoning Committee.
“My years of experience as a leader have brought me to believe that by gathering enough information, building consensus and compromise where feasible, most issues can end as a win/win to everyone’s advantage,” Rustin wrote. “These years of service to the City Council have enabled me to grow, not only as an individual, but as a group leader.”
Like Fullwood, Rustin sought the Council’s vice presidency last year, but rather than dropping out, cast no vote at the election.
“This time I feel like it’s anyone’s race,” she said. “I’ve been thinking about running for some time and I’ve been encouraged by my supporters who are not on the Council to do it.”
Rustin declined to speculate on Council support, but added “a lot can happen” between now and when votes are cast.
“Campaigns always go to the last day, and I wouldn’t expect this to be any different,” she said. “People may have pledges now, but when someone new enters a race, it’s a whole new game.”
Brown appears to be leading at the moment, with pledges from 10 Council members.
“I feel excellent about the pledged support I’ve received,” said Brown. “And I’m not surprised anyone has decided to enter the race. The election is still pretty far away and people are feeling out what kind of support they can get and they are welcome to do that.”
Brown said she’ll likely collect signed pledges before the end of this week, when Rustin plans to hold meetings and possibly sway votes.
“At this stage, the Council presidency is still open to anyone,” she said. “I feel like there’s still an opportunity for anyone to win.”