Frankfort City Councilman Lewis Wheeler announced last summer that he was going to run for the Clinton County Auditor position. However, that all changed last week as Wheeler announced he is withdrawing his candidacy for the position.
“My decision to suspend my campaign has not been an easy one,” said Wheeler in a press release. “It has been motivated by a sense of urgency to fulfill my duty to the people of the 3rd District in the midst of some very big decisions looming ahead in the next two years.”
Wheeler and Britt Ostler had filed for the auditor position that will be contested in the May primary due to the retirement of current auditor Cathy Hamilton.
Wheeler elaborated on his statement regarding big decisions facing the city.
“Frankfort is faced with several projects that will have a far reaching impact on the citizens for many years to come,” said Wheeler. “A police station rebuild estimated at $7 million, Project Home Run and Prairie Creek Park estimated at $10 million, and an overhaul to the wastewater treatment facilities to increase capacities (in several phases) estimated conservatively at $23 million brings the possibility of $40 million worth of debt before my term would end.
“I am convinced that the city should separate needs from wants and tighten spending across the board before taking on a debt that my children 20 years from now would continue to pay,” continued Wheeler. “Couple that with the updating of the zoning code project through the City Plan Commission and Board of Zoning and Appeals and State Road 28 rebuild, I am convinced that my best service to the community is finishing my term on Frankfort City Council.”
Wheeler added when he announced his decision to run for auditor it would make his service to the community a full time occupation. In the months that followed, Wheeler said he was humbled to have over 80 local friends reach out to him to offer support, volunteer to help and donate, and give him their prayers.
“I appreciate the outpouring of love and support from this community and look forward to continuing to serve as I have had the honor these last two years,” he said.