Longtime Daphne City Councilman John Lake announced his intention last week to become the city of Daphne’s next mayor. In a letter sent to supporters, Lake said his 24 years of service as a city council member had led him to want to seek the city’s highest office. “Serving now as Daphne’s most senior member of council, I have worked alongside many council members and four mayors, gaining an invaluable understanding of the history of our challenges and assets,” Lake said. “I am most grateful for and elevated by, the relationships and interactions with the people of Daphne over the decades. Now, I am seeking the opportunity to carry the knowledge and insight I have gained to City Hall as Daphne’s next mayor.” Lake said his focus will continue to be on communication with the city’s voters and transparency in the city’s government, so that citizens know exactly how their tax dollars are being spent.

“I am proud to say that it in 24 years as an elected official that I have never used my position for personal gain nor will I ever do that,” Lake said. “I have always put the citizens of Daphne first and my duties as an elected official above my own personal gain.”

He also called for greater citizen involvement within the city.

“Over the last few years it has become more and more apparent that if we do not change the direction of our community, our quality of life will be greatly compromised,” Lake said. “We need to get citizens involved with how our community grows for each and every person living here, not just a few developers.” Lake said he will be making his way throughout the city during this election season, making sure that the issues and problems of all of the city’s citizens will be heard and discussed. “I will let people know how I stand on issues,” Lake said. “I invite people to thoroughly vet my background, as well as backgrounds of other candidates for mayor. I encourage every person to vote for the person they feel is the most qualified and knowledgeable to be the leader of their community.” For more information on Lake’s campaign, call John Lake for Daphne at 454-2513.