Peoria 3rd District Councilman Bob Manning will not run for re-election. Manning has been on the council since defeating incumbent Gale Thetford in April 2005.

In a statement, Manning said, “My decision comes after weeks of deliberation and after discussion with family members. At the end of the day, I simply want more time to spend with my wife and children.”

Recently, Manning wanted the city to pursue buying the water company. The council ultimately decided against that idea in a 7-4 vote. Now, the city won't have the opportunity to purchase the waterworks from Illinois American for another five years.

Peoria Mayor Jim Ardis has said he will run for another term. But, 5th District Councilman Patrick Nichting is giving up his seat so he can run for city treasurer.

Filing for April's election begins this week.

Here is Bob Manning's Statement Released to the Media:

Councilman Bob Manning announced tonight that he will not seek re-election for his 3rd District seat. “I appreciated the opportunity to represent the 3rd District and I am thankful for the strong support that my constituents provided. I enjoyed working on their behalf and achieving solutions to many of the issues and challenges that we faced,” Councilman Manning said. He added, “My decision comes after weeks of deliberation and after discussion with family members. At the end of the day, I simply want more time to spend with my wife and children.”