After months of speculation, Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo officially announced last week that he will seek a tenth term in office. The news came via a video released on Saffo’s campaign website, where the longtime mayor confirmed his intention to continue leading the city he has served since 2006.
- “I’m Bill Saffo. It’s been an honor and privilege to serve you, and I want to continue to protect our future as Wilmington’s Mayor,” Saffo said in the announcement.
Challenges: Saffo highlighted the city’s rapid growth over the years, while acknowledging that growth brings both opportunities and challenges. “With growth comes change and new challenges. I’m running for re-election as Wilmington’s Mayor to face those challenges head-on.”
Two Main Issues: Saffo outlined two major focuses of his campaign: housing affordability and public safety. He described the affordability crisis as both a national and local problem but emphasized Wilmington’s proactive efforts. “Wilmington is leading the region with innovative solutions to create new housing options for our residents,” he said, pointing to policies and projects initiated during his administration aimed at expanding affordable housing opportunities.
- On public safety, Saffo touted his administration’s record, noting that violent crime has dropped to a multi-year low under his leadership. “We must invest in the men and women who protect us and make public safety a hallmark of our future,” he added.
Record Breaking: If re-elected, Saffo would further cement his place as the longest-serving mayor in Wilmington’s history.
Two-Man Race: Saffo joins former County Commissioner Jonathan Barfield in the mayoral race. Barfield announced he was running for Mayor at the end of February, just three months after losing his bid to stay on the New Hanover County Commission.
Bottom Line: Saffo and Barfield are both democrats. The question still remains as to whether a Republican will enter the race or let the two democrats battle it out.
