Daniel Pettit Withdraws from Waukee Mayor's Race

In a release sent to Waukee Patch today, it was announced that challenger Daniel Pettit, a candidate for Waukee mayor, has dropped out of the race.

“The timing is awkward and I know the decision will be a disappointment to many people who were committed to a spirited campaign and to having a choice for mayor in this year’s ballot," Pettit said. "In the end, it is a decision that is best for my family and the people closest to me."

Pettit expressed well wishes for his opponent, Mayor Bill Peard, and the Waukee community.

“I hope more residents will become active in all aspects of the community and, in particular, work with the city’s leaders to continue to improve Waukee’s economic development efforts and government services,” he said. “I certainly wish Mayor Peard the best as he works to move projects like the Alice’s Road Corridor forward.”

Pettit's release said he will assume additional job responsibilities in eastern Iowa.

Early Showings

Pettit sparred with Peard at the held Oct. 11. During the debate, Pettit repeatedly criticized Peard for Waukee's high property taxes and lack of progress on the Alice's Road corridor project. He said what Waukee needed was new leadership.

“Believe with your eyes, not your ears,” Pettit said of the progress in Waukee. “It’s time for a change.”

Mayor Peard said this of Pettit's announcement:

"Earlier today, Daniel called me to inform me he was dropping out of the race," said Peard. "I appreciate both his call and his willingness to serve in the Waukee city government. I certainly wish him and his family the very best."

"With election day less than one month away, I plan to continue talking to voters everyday about how we can work together as a community to maintain Waukee’s place as a premier city to live, work and raise a family," he said. "Serving as mayor of the city has ben an incredible privilege and I will continue to ask the citizens for the opportunity to serve as their mayor."

The Election

The election will be held Nov. 8. There are - incumbent Casey Harvey, and challengers Chris Colter and Shelly Hughes.

The deadline to withdraw from the mayor's race was Sept. 27. Since Pettit announced his departure today, Oct. 10, his name will still be listed on the ballot alongside Mayor Peard.