Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton is debating whether to withdraw or
postpone his resignation, a close supporter confirmed this morning.
Since Herenton announced his resignation last week -- which would
have gone into effect July 10 -- County Commissioner Sidney Chism (left, in 2008 photo) said
the mayor is now disappointed with how successors are handling the
transition. And with all the candidates jockeying to take hold of the
city's reigns, Chism said Herenton is also apprehensive about
relinquishing his seat to "all these candidates in the race.""It's just getting crazy," Chism said.
Herenton has not confirmed the speculation. And Chism said Herenton still intends to resign and run in the 9th Congressional District race against State Rep. Steve Cohen.
But Chism said the mayor is displeased with City Council chairman Myron Lowery prematurely announcing his transition team - before being sworn in as mayor pro tem next Friday.
"My whole thought is that he (the mayor) can go about his business, but he's not going to let the city go to the dogs because someone is acting crazy," Chism said.
According to Chism, the mayor is thinking about either postponing his resignation - "get Myron out of the picture" - or resign and then actually run in the special election - "depending on how many candidates get in the race to keep it from getting crazy."
Chism said Herenton will not lose credibility by putting off his resignation. He is still getting constant calls from constituents urging him to stay on.
"People are calling him every minute," Chism said. "He don't need to retire."
Leave a comment