In Waynesboro
Mayor, vice-mayor will not seek reelection
By Elizabeth Billips Associate Editor

Waynesboro is going to need a new mayor and vice-mayor.

In interviews Tuesday, both Mayor Jesse Stone and Vice- Mayor Neal Leonard Sr. said their names won't be on the Nov. 6 ballots.

In fact, when qualifications begin Aug. 9, half the council seats will be up for grabs.

In addition to Leonard's Ward II seat, those of Bill Tinley (Ward I) and Willie Roy Will- iams (Ward III) are expiring.

While Tinley says he plans to run again, Williams could not be reached for comment.

Both Mayor Stone and Vice- Mayor Leonard expressed mixed emotions about their decisions.

"I had a hard time coming to this decision because I enjoy the job so much," Stone said, explaining that he intends to spend more time at his law practice. "But I did a lot of what I set out to do, especially with housing."

Mayor Stone plans to continue serving on the city's Downtown Development Authority and Historic Preservation Commission.

Vice-Mayor Leonard, who has been a councilman for 15 years, said his decision was sparked by recent health problems.

"My health won't let me do a one hundred percent job," he said. "And that's what's needed." MUNICIPAL ELECTION:

Nov. 6 Run-off (if needed): Dec. 4

EXPIRING SEATS:

Mayor Ward 1, Post 1 Ward 2, Post 2 Ward 3, Post 3

QUALIFYING: Aug. 29-Aug. 31

at Burke County

Court House

FEES: $126 mayor, $108 council

Annual Salary:

$4,200 mayor $3,600 council