“I think it’s time for someone else to lead,” he said.
One city commissioner, Rob Rue, announced this week his plans to run for mayor in 2023.
“From the time I began running for commissioner in 2017, my goal was to learn about Springfield and lead our community and move it forward,” Rue wrote in a social media announcement. “I have been a part of helping make decisions that have done that. Currently, I serve as assistant mayor and intend on running for mayor in 2023!”
From the time I began running for Commissioner in 2017, my goal was to learn about Springfield and lead our community...
Posted by Rob Rue - Springfield City Commissioner on Saturday, December 3, 2022
Copeland’s term expires at the start of 2024. He said he looks forward to spending more time with his loved ones during retirement.
Hopeful candidates have until Feb. 1 to file petitions to run in the mayoral race. In Springfield, a mayoral candidate is required to collect 250 valid signatures prior to the filing deadline, according to the Clark County Board of Elections.
Per the city’s charter, if fewer than three people file for the mayor race by the February deadline, a primary election will not be held and candidates will be featured on the November ballot. If three or more file for the race, a May primary will be held and the top two candidates will advance to the general election.
Copeland first joined Springfield City Commission in 1988. He was appointed to the role of mayor in Springfield in 1998, when commissioners voted for the role among themselves. In 2003 he became the first mayor of Springfield to be directly elected by voters since 1914, according to the city.
Rue was elected to Springfield commission in 2018, and he was appointed to his first term as assistant mayor this January.
He said he saw his role as assistant mayor this year, as well as the years he has also served as a city commissioner, as a chance to learn as much as he could about leading a city.
His intent from the beginning of that time was to help the city he loves move forward, he said.
“I’m working to be a champion for this city,” he said.
Rue also serves as president and general manager of Littleton and Rue Funeral Home in Springfield.
About the Author
