After eight years in office as Calgary's mayor, Dave Bronconnier surprised many with today's announcement he will not be seeking a fourth term. In a press release, Bronconnier says he intends to return to private life in October after "largely accomplishing his political agenda."

"... ladies and gentlemen, I didn’t get into public life to cut ribbons," Bronconnier said in the press release. "I got into politics to get things done... I have a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment because the goal that was set back in 2001 has largely been reached. Therefore, this is my final term as Calgary’s Mayor — I will not be seeking re-election in October."

His list of "accomplishments" include: "unprecedented investments in transportation, transit, and protective services; retaining ownership of ENMAX (the city’s wholly-owned energy utility); development of the ENMAX Legacy Parks Fund; environmental initiatives such as curb-side recycling, water and energy conservation, and; redevelopment of East Village through tax increment financing."

The soon-to-be retired mayor offered some advice to potential candidates that appears to have been written on a bar room napkin: "Strive for better and work every day to make it happen. And be determined. Never be disheartened or dissuaded by naysayers. Great cities are not built by those who say ‘no’."

Hmmm... wonder who that last bit/dig was aimed at?