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Wednesday, October 8, 2008

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Muehlhausen leaving Baxter council

Personal issues cited in decision

By MATT ERICKSON

Staff Writer

BAXTER - Gary Muehlhausen does not want to be re-elected to the Baxter City Council.

In an emotional speech at Tuesday's Baxter City Council meeting, Muehlhausen said due to personal issues and after discussions with his wife, he was withdrawing his candidacy for one of the two city council seats up for election Nov. 4.

Because he missed the deadline to withdraw, Muehlhausen's name will still appear on the ballot. He will not actively seek election to the seat, however. Muehlhausen has served on the council for 16 years, serving as mayor for six of those years. He was first appointed to the council in 1992.

In addressing the council, Muehlhausen said he's been fortunate during his time on the council to work with excellent commission members, staffers and council members.

Muehlhausen has served on the council for 16 years, serving as mayor for six of those years. He was first appointed to the council in 1992.

"It's been quite a ride," he said. He received applause following his announcement, and following the meeting shook hands and hugged many in attendance.

Muehlhausen declined further comment on his decision at Tuesday's council meeting.

Mayor Darrel Olson said he knew Muehlhausen had been struggling with the decision shortly after he filed for re-election. He said the council, commissioner members and city staffers would honor his decision and have appreciated all Muehlhausen had done for the city.

"We'll greatly miss him," Olson said.

Muehlhausen was one of three people to file for the two city council seats up for election this year. The others were incumbent Todd Holman and challenger Mark Cross, who had previously served on the city council.

MATT ERICKSON may be reached at matt.erickson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5857.

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