One of Gainesville's current city councilors is stepping down from his Ward 2 seat to focus on a run for mayor of Gainesville.
A press release Thursday afternoon from councilor Zack Thompson announced his future political intentions for the the city, while noting his commitment to making any council activity movements fluid in the weeks and months ahead.
Thompson said in the release sent to AccessWDUN, "After nearly a decade of service on the Gainesville City Council, I am announcing my resignation from the Ward 2 seat, effective as of Friday, June 27, 2025, as I prepare to dedicate my full attention to running for Mayor of our great city this November. Under Georgia law, I could continue serving until the official candidate qualification period in August. However, stepping down now ensures that the election to fill my council seat can be included on this November’s general election ballot. Otherwise, our city would face the burden of a costly and unnecessary special election next March. I believe this early decision is the most responsible course of action and reflects my commitment to what’s best for Gainesville."
His original announcement to run for Gainesville Mayor came after current Gainesville Mayor Sam Couvillion formally announced his run for the U.S. 9th Congressional District seat in Georgia, currently filled by Congressman Andrew Clyde.
Thompson adds that he continues to have confidence in the current work by the sitting city council members as he makes his future political plans. "I want to be clear: I am extremely confident in our current elected officials and city leadership. Gainesville is in great hands, and I step away from this role knowing that the work we’ve begun will continue to move forward with vision and integrity. Serving on the City Council for the past nine years has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Together, we’ve made real progress—thoughtful growth, major infrastructure improvements, expanded public safety, and stronger community programs. But the most rewarding part has been the relationships built along the way—with my fellow council members, our hardworking city staff, and the citizens who make Gainesville so special."
Thompson's resignation from Gainesville City Council will take effect today, June 27th, 2025. So far, John Elliott has announced his intentions to run for Thompson's vacated seat an election to fill the role will take place in November.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2025/6/1292351/zack-thompson-announces-resignation-from-gainesville-city-county-will-focus-on-mayoral-race-for-november