PITTSFIELD, Mass. — After four terms, Ward 7 Councilor Anthony Simonelli will not seek re-election this November.

 

Simonelli sent an email to his constituents on Thursday announcing his intentions to "retire" from the council. 

 

"I have enjoyed my 7 1/2 years as your city councilor and have met many wonderful people, but now is the right time for me to "retire" (again). I'm not going away.  My wife is soon to retire and my 2 grandchildren (ages 9 months and 2 months) will certainly occupy my time. I might even be able to improve my golf game," Simonelli wrote.

 

The former teacher and coach retired from Pittsfield Public Schools in 2011 and was elected to the City Council later that year, taking office in 2012. He ran unopposed his first two times and fended off challengers in the last two elections.

 

"Upon retiring in 2011, I decided to run for City Council and represent Ward 7. I stated that my sole objective was to be an independent voice and represent our Ward and the City to the best of my abilities. I believe I have stayed true to my promise," Simonelli wrote to his constituents

 

Simonelli's announcement is the first move in this year's city election. Simonelli wrote that he opted to release his intentions early to allow for potential candidates to have "plenty of time to think it over and plan ahead."

 

"I want to thank you for your continued support and understanding these past 7 1/2 years. It has been my privilege and honor to represent you. While we may not have agreed on every issue, please know that I always did what I felt was in the best interest of our Ward and the City of Pittsfield," Simonelli wrote.

 

"Although I am announcing today, I will continue to devote my time and energy over the next 8 months representing you, as I have for the past 4 terms."