Pasadena Councilman Andy Wilson Won't Run For Re-Election

PASADENA, CA — Pasadena Councilman and Vice Mayor Andy Wilson announced this week he will not seek re-election when his term expires next year.

Wilson will shift his focus instead toward his philanthropic efforts, he told the Pasadena Star-News. He currently serves as the executive director of the Alliance for Southern California Innovation, a nonprofit organization focused on bringing technology startups to the Southland.

Wilson will continue to fulfill his duties as vice mayor and looks forward to finishing his term on a high note, he told Pasadena Now.

“I remain passionate about serving this amazing community. However, I believe there are other high impact ways to serve and am eager to explore and dedicate time to those organizations,” he told the outlet. “Given the demands of serving on council, I wasn’t able to do both.”

Wilson’s announcement comes days after City Manager Steve Mermell announced his own retirement from government work.

The primary nomination election to fill Wilson’s seat isn’t until June 2022. Planning Commissioner Jason Lyon has already thrown his hat into the ring.

“I’m running for the council because I love this city. I want it to be not just the wonderful place it is but all the amazing things it can be,” Lyon said in a letter to supporters.

Wilson has been on the City Council since 2015, when he was first appointed to fill a vacant seat. He was then elected to represent District 7 in 2017.