This year will be Beaumont Mayor Becky Ames’ last on the City Council.
“I believe our accomplishments far exceed our challenges,” the political veteran said this morning in making the announcement that she would not seek re-election to the post she has held for 14 years.
Ames was first elected to the council as an at-large member in 1994. She became mayor in 2007.
In her remarks today at City Council chambers, Ames lamented the rise of partisan politics within the body. She also cited “half-truths” that are posted on social media or other online forums for having a negative impact on city government.
She urged voters to choose candidates who are independent and running for “all the right reasons.”
A handful of potential successors have already made their plans public.
At-large Councilman W.L. Pate Jr.; Beaumont businessman and radio personality Roy West Jr.; and Breathe Workforce Development CEO Biguita Hernandez-Smith all have announced their plans to seek the seat.
Community organizer Geary Senigaur Jr. previously announced plans to again seek the seat, but he has since decided against a run.
Ames said she will leave office especially proud of such public projects as the lakeside center, event center, tennis center and Cattail Marsh. She also expressed pride in upgrades in Beaumont public health.
The mayor also said she feels good about ensuring the city is in a strong financial situation, calling that one of a mayor’s most important roles.
“I can honestly say without a doubt we have achieved that goal even in challenging times,” she said.
As she and her husband have contemplated her stepping down, Ames said, she’s taken time to reflect on her tenure and grade herself.
“I’ve always felt if I was going to be successful ... my first order of business every day would be to let my actions confirm to citizens that my service is not partisan,” she said.
This report will be updated.
