Cooksey not running for third term at City Council

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — "We know there will be at least five new members. Let's just hope they have studied up for the job," he said. Another Charlotte Republican city councilman announced that he is not seeking re-election this year.

Warren Cooksey told Eyewitness News why he does not want to run, and it could mean major changes for the direction of the city.

On Monday, Cooksey said he is not running for a fourth term so that he can focus on his personal and professional life.

His departure, along with that of the council's only other Republican, Andy Dulin, and a major shuffling of Democrats vying for new roles could signal a major shakeup in Charlotte's political landscape.

Cooksey, of District 7, said handling the needs of Charlotte's booming population will be the new council's biggest challenge.

Pat Cannon and James Mitchell are leaving their seats to run for mayor. Michael Barnes leaves District 4 to run at large, and Dulin and Cooksey are out.

Districts 2, 4, 6 and7 and an at-large post will have new members this fall -- and a new mayor too.

Political expert Dr. Michael Bitzer said that could lead to fresh ideas, but there is a flip side.

"It could also bring a lot angst about where is this city headed," he said.

Or it could bring abrupt changes, like when the mostly new Mecklenberg county commission fired manager Harry Jones. Although he doesn't see the new city manager, Ron Carlee, in any danger, Bitzer said pet projects of the past council could be.

"These people are not beholden to any of the status quo programs. They can come in and implement their ideas, and that can be radical departure from what we have seen in the past," said Bitzer.

Plans could be put on hold as the new leaders get up to speed.

Eyewitness News asked Cooksey if he thinks there will be a learning curve. If so, he said, he is hoping it will be a short one.

"We know there will be at least five new members. Let's just hope they have studied up for the job," he said.