Mayor of Trussville, Buddy Choat, announced that he will not seek a third term in office at his annual State of the City address on Thursday. Choat told the crowd at the Trussville Civic Center that he had made the decision during a vacation in Nova Scotia last year.

“When we got back, I had a clear vision on what next year, this coming year meant. One of the things that did become clear to me was it’s time for a change,” Choat said. “I am not going to seek reelection next year. It was never my plan to stay here more than two terms, although I love what I do. I love the people I work with, great citizens, but it’s time.”

He encouraged city officials to continue his work and also expressed gratitude towards the citizens of Trussville for their faith in his leadership.

“There’s leaders, there’s always leaders in a community, we’ve got leaders in this community that will step up and take over and just keep carrying the torch, and that’s what I hope they’ll do,” said Choat.

“Our work is not done, but I thank you. I thank you for the opportunity to do what I’ve done for what will be nine years, a total of 17 years–two terms on the council and nine years as your mayor. It’s been a great honor for me and a privilege and from us, we say thank you.”

Prior to being elected as mayor, Choat was a Trussville City Council member for nine years. He has one more year in office before completing his final term. The next municipal election for mayor and city council will be held in August of 2025.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten