After serving less than three months on the Glenwood City Council, Chase Pope said he will not seek a full term in the November election. Mayor Billy Plyler said he and Councilman Johnny Cox will be running for reelection.

The weeklong candidate filing period for open municipal positions in Pike County runs from noon Wednesday, July 29, through noon Wednesday, Aug. 5.

Plyler told The Glenwood Herald he has been fundraising in anticipation of another campaign. During his administration, the city has secured millions of dollars in grants for several major projects, including street paving, sidewalks, water improvements, replacement of failing underground sewer lines and upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment plant.

“The main reason why I’d like to be there another term is to get all those done, keep everything going smoothly,” Plyler said. “None of those jobs will be completed by the end of this year. Some of them won’t even be started. So, I’d like to get all those projects wrapped up for the city.”

Cox could not be reached for comment for this story, but Plyler said he has spoken with him and that Cox plans to file for reelection for the North Ward, Position 2 seat. It is not yet known whether either candidate will face opponents in the November election.

Pope said his decision not to seek a full term came after he was promoted at WinChoice to director of operations for the company’s referral department, which is requiring more of his time.

Pope was selected by the council to fill the remaining term of Chris Fuller, who resigned from the South Ward, Position 2 seat after moving outside city limits.

“It was a rare opportunity when I came in,” Pope said in an interview following the council’s July 21 meeting. “It’s really cool to get to see how the city works and the financials of it and the layers to it, but long term, I think it’s better for somebody that can devote the time that’s needed to really invest in it.”

When he filed paperwork for the position, Pope said he had not decided how long he would be willing to serve and was open to any possibility. At the time, he viewed it as an opportunity to give back to his hometown, especially after spending years away in the U.S. Navy.

“I’ve always enjoyed Glenwood, growing up here, and I really enjoy the people that I’ve worked with,” Pope said. “But I’ve got five kids and we’re active in foster care, so my plate’s pretty full. I want to turn my focus to my family.”

Pope praised the work of Plyler and the other members of the City Council. He said that when the council meets in executive session to discuss personnel matters, members have vigorous discussions while respectfully sharing their opinions.

The council’s last two meetings have included executive sessions.

Pope said his primary concern for the city is the structure of the police department. He said his comments are not intended as criticism of Police Chief Greg Harmon, whom he praised for his years of service with the department.

However, Pope said changes may be needed to better protect residents at a time of change for the community. He specifically noted that if Pike County eventually becomes a wet county, the police department will face new challenges.