West Haven mayor set to retire

West Haven (WTNH) - Democratic Mayor John Picard is not seeking re-election this year which is a move that has shocked many of his supporters.

He had campaign head-quarters and even raised cash to run. But West Haven Mayor Picard said his heart wasn't in it.

"I do love the job but it does take its toll," he said.

Mayor Picard sat down with News Channel 8 to explain his sudden, surprise decision not to seek a third term. He said the decision comes due to a desire to spend more time with family.

"The real reason is my family, my daughter is two, I think everybody knows my wife is expecting our second child," said Mayor Picard. "This, it's a great job, but [it] takes a lot of time [and] commitment if you want to do the the job right."

The job hasn't been easy for Picard. He faced taxpayer backlash and anger as he tried to cope with a daunting multi-million dollar deficit.

Recently, he clashed with state auditors questioning methods of reducing the red ink.

Picard said it didn't influence his decision.

"If it had been the finances; I would have walked away four years ago believe me," he said. "Now, it's much better."

This means the race for the main seat at city hall is wide open. Democrat Councilwoman Nancy Rossi was planning to force a primary for the nomination; now she expects others to join the race

"We could have six contenders, or ten, or whatever," said Rossi. "My thing is I have been here right along; I didn't wait for John Picard to withdraw to put up my interest."

Some at city hall are stunned and are appealing to Mayor Picard to have a change of heart.

"Most people ask me to reconsider," said Mayor Picard. "I'm pretty sure my mind is made up."