Rich Gossling, Bristol town chairman or village president since 2000, announced he will not seek re-election in April.
He made the announcement during the president’s comments section of a Village Board meeting Wednesday night.
Gossling cited “family medical reasons” as the reason for his decision.
Gossling’s voice wavered with emotion several times while reading a statement announcing his decision.
Here is the text of that statement.:
I have decided not to seek re-election, My decision is for family medical reasons. I have been office now for 10 years and need to move on in my life and attend to other life obligations.
There never was any personal agenda but to move Bristol forward, a course I have followed all the way through. Any of our successes, and I think there were many, need to be shared, both with the members of the Town Board and now with the Village Board. It was a total team effort, none of which could be accomplished without the team.
It has been an honor serving with you both.
In addition, it has been an honor and privilege representing the residents of Bristol these past 10 years. The confidence you have shown in me will not soon be forgotten.
Last but not least I want to thank our top notch office staff — Mary, Kathie (our financial director), Amy (our clerk/treasurer) and Carol. We could not function without any of them.
A debt of gratitude goes to Randy, our administrator, for keeping it all together.
And not to forget any of the employees, Fire Chief Parker, all of our firefighters and public works men and women.
Thank you all.”
All trustees addressed Gossling’s statement in their individual comments. Several expressed surprise. Others mentioned the guidance and leadership Gossling has showed them and the town/village.
“You have served the town and the village with great distinction,” Trustee Mike Farrell said to Gossling.
“I am speechless and I will miss you,” said Trustee Carolyn Owens.
“It’s been an honor sitting here with you,’ said Trustee Robert Matthews.
Gossling will continue to serve as village president until after the April 2011 election.
Gossling’s tenure as village president included the incorporation of the town of Bristol as a village.