City leadership

One of the most important decisions Cape Girardeau voters will make next April is their choice for mayor. The current mayor, Jay Knudtson, is nearing the end of this eight years as mayor, a term limited by the city charter. Individuals interest in becoming a candidate for mayor have until Nov. 17 to complete the filing process.

In addition, voters in Ward 2 and Ward 6 will be choosing new council representatives. Charlie Herbst and Marcia Ritter also have reached the charter's term limits.

Two people -- Matt Hopkins and Walter White -- have filed as candidates for mayor. If more than two candidates seek one of the city posts, a primary election will be held Feb. 2 to select two finalists for the April 6 municipal election.

The city has had, over the years, capable mayors. In particular, the most recent two mayors -- Knudtson and his predecessor, Al Spradling III -- provided extraordinary leadership at a time when the city faced and met critical needs: street projects, fire and police department upgrades and major improvements for parks and recreation, to name a few.

We encourage all qualified and dedicated individuals to consider what they can contribute to continue the recent legacy of first-rate city government.