Holland Mayor Kurt Dykstra Will Not Seek Re-Election

Today, in a letter addressed to the people of Holland, Holland Mayor Kurt Dykstra announced that he will not seek re-election this November.

The letter in its entirety reads:

To the People of Holland:

For over ten years, you have given me the privilege of serving you on the City Council – first as a Councilmember and, since 2009, as your Mayor. Thank you for the opportunity and honor of electing me to those offices. It has been an unspeakable pleasure to try to provide the kind of leadership that this incredible city expects and deserves.

However, I will not be seeking re-election this coming November. Over the past few days, positive events have occurred in my family and professional life; these events, however, mean that I will not seek re-election. While at present I cannot share with you the details of those events, within a few weeks they will be announced. Hopefully those details will answer any of your questions about this decision and announcement.

Why, then, am I making this announcement at this time if I cannot share many details with you? In short, Michigan law requires that candidates seeking office this November must have their nominating petitions turned in by Tuesday, April 21, 2015. In fairness to you as residents of this city – as well as to those who might consider seeking the office of mayor – I believe that it is my obligation to inform you of my decision in as timely a manner as possible.

Thank you again for the privilege of serving you for over a decade. I have enjoyed and appreciated it greatly. Holland, Michigan, is a wonderful and unique place. May it continue to be so long into the future.

With highest regards, Kurt D. Dykstra Mayor

Dykstra has served for over ten years in elected office in the City of Holland. He was the Fifth Ward Council member (2005-09) and Mayor (2009-2015).  He also represents the City of Holland on the Holland Planning Commission, the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, the West Michigan Regional Airport Authority, the Holland SmartZone Local Development Authority, and the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce.

Mayor Dykstra is the Senior Vice President and Holland Community President of Mercantile Bank. He and his wife, Leah, have two teenage daughters.

Those interested in running for mayor must file nominating petitions with the City clerk by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2015.