Clarksdale Mayor Chuck Espy announced today that he will not seek re-election after eight years in office. Speaking to city employees, Espy expressed his appreciation for the residents who have supported the city’s resurgence during his tenure.
Espy highlighted several achievements, including the growth of Clarksdale’s reserve fund for the first time in more than 50 years. This improvement, he said, was a direct result of a focused effort to balance the city’s budget. The mayor also emphasized the transformation of the city’s board meetings, which have shifted from contentious to more peaceful and productive under his leadership.
“My goal was to ensure that Clarksdale’s next mayor has a strong financial start that enables the city to prosper for the future,” Espy said. “I came into a city in financial trouble. Now, I am leaving behind a city with a better credit rating and millions in reserves. I am satisfied the next Mayor and City Council will have all the financial tools it needs to take Clarksdale to the next level.”
Espy will complete his term in office over the next six months.
