First-term Spartanburg County Councilman Justin Bradley announced Saturday that he will not run for re-election in 2018.
Bradley, 30, was elected in November 2014 to represent District 2, which includes Boiling Springs. He defeated two-term incumbent O'Neal Mintz to win the seat representing one of Spartanburg County's fastest-growing areas.
In his announcement, he thanked his supporters and said he will serve out the remainder of his term.
"It has been one of the greatest honors in my life to serve these last three years on council," Bradley said in his announcement. "I've had to make tough votes — decisions that will impact generations in Spartanburg County. I've also had some of my greatest joys in serving my friends in District 2 — from volunteering with the Carolina Miracle League to recognizing so many great students in our county to raising awareness to issues like human trafficking. This burden of public service is one that I never have taken lightly."
Bradley said Saturday he planned to spend more time with his family, which includes three young children. He said he also plans to move out of District 2 to another home in Spartanburg County, one that will be closer to Greenville, where he is employed at Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing.
"I decided to make this announcement now to allow other candidates who may be interested to step up and begin campaigning," Bradley stated. "It is my sincere hope that our next councilman will be someone who represents a new generation and continues to look forward rather than backward."
He added: "This decision does not mean that I will be stepping away from being vocal about the important issues facing our county and our state."