Another Council Member Won't Seek Re-Election In Anne Arundel County

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — An Anne Arundel County Council member announced recently that she will not run for a second term.

Shannon Leadbetter, a Republican representing South County in District 7, said she will not seek any other elected offices.

"I never intended to make a career out of elected office and I am ready to step aside so someone else can have the opportunity to serve as 'citizen legislator,'" Leadbetter wrote on Facebook on Aug. 25. "I am confident new leadership will step forward and continue the fight!"

Leadbetter is the second council member to announce she won't run again. On Aug. 22, Democrat Lisa D. B. Rodvien said she will not seek a third term representing District 6.

Leadbetter fought for smart spending, and she opposed tax and fee hikes.

"During my time on the Council, I have worked hard to consistently uphold limited government and fiscally conservative principles —voting against the 10-cent paper bag fee and opposing two County property tax increases," Leadbetter said. "I have also been honored to stand with our disabled veterans and public safety officers, sponsoring legislation and supporting measures that expanded tax credits, raised pay, and provided take-home vehicles for our Sheriffs."

Leadbetter said she is also proud for "[supporting] our local farming community, budgeting for more special education positions in our schools and stopping the expansion of increased redevelopment residential density in District 7."

"Serving in this role has been a tremendous honor, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together," Leadbetter said. "Most of all, I want to say thank you. There are not enough words to express my gratitude to all who supported me—through my campaign and throughout my time on the Council. You believed in me. You gave your time, your talent, and your resources. For that, I will always be deeply grateful. With humility and heartfelt appreciation, I will continue to work hard for the remainder of my term."

Related:

• Rodvien Won't Seek Re-Election To Anne Arundel County Council
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• Glen Burnie High Graduate Running For County Council In District 2
• Democrat James Kitchin Running For Anne Arundel County Executive
• Pickard To Run For County Executive After Serving On Council, School Board