Editorial: Amyx served with distinction

Longtime Lawrence commissioner is a good example for those pursuing a path of public service.

Longtime Lawrence City Commissioner Mike Amyx announced last week that he will not run for re-election, bringing to an end a distinguished era of service to the community.

Amyx, owner of Amyx Barber Shop, has been a fixture in Lawrence politics since the 1980s.

“I have had discussions with a number of people about things, and for me, it’s one of timing,” Amyx said. “I’ve served my time and it’s truly been an honor and privilege to be able to do that.”

Amyx began his political career in 1983 and has served a remarkable six terms as mayor. He has served nearly 20 years on the City Commission and spent five years on the Douglas County Commission, including a stint as commission chair from 1989 to 1991.

Amyx will serve out his term through the election on Nov. 7, giving the community the opportunity to appropriately salute Amyx’s quarter century of service.

Amyx is the only member of the current commission with previous experience. Part of his decision to announce this early that he will not run is to help nudge those thinking about running into doing so. “Part of that decision’s got to be who all is going to run as incumbents, so if my intent at this point is not to run I need to get that out so people can decide,” Amyx said.

The filing deadline for the City Commission race is noon on June 1. Candidates will have an Aug. 1 primary, if needed, before the Nov. 7 general election. Primaries will be scheduled only if the number of candidates who file is more than twice the number of open seats.

The terms of Amyx, Lisa Larsen and Matthew Herbert expire this year. Larsen and Herbert are seeking re-election. Three others have filed for election to the commission: Bassem Chahine, Dustin Stumblingbear and Jennifer Ananda.

Here is hoping that Amyx’s decision has the intended effect and a number of candidates emerge in the next week. The community is best served when there is a full slate of candidates to choose from for the City Commission.

The community also is best served when an experienced commissioner like Amyx gives of his time and talents for such a sustained period of time.