Joe LaCava, Democrat candidate for the First District City Council seat in 2016 and a central figure in several area associations, announced Jan. 8 he was dropping out of the race approximately one year after his decision to run. “Thank you for your friendship and support as I have campaigned for San Diego City Council,” said LaCava in a prepared statement to his backers. “I can’t imagine even attempting this endeavor without you behind me.” Bird Rock resident LaCava said this was a “tough” decision, but the “right” decision, to withdraw from contention. “After taking some time over the past few days to talk with my family, I have decided that it is time to end the campaign and withdraw from the race,” he said. “Although it has been incredibly gratifying to have so many supporters pushing me to keep going, this is the best decision for me and my family. I remain committed to bringing positive change to San Diego. I have worked with many good folks on issues vital to our community and look forward to continuing to do so. Best wishes for a wonderful 2016.” Sherri Lightner, currently City Council president, terms out in 2016 after two four-year terms as the First District Council representative. “?I want to thank Joe for his longstanding commitment to District 1 and San Diego?,” Republican contender Ray Ellis said. “T?hrough his work with the San Diego Community Planners Committee and his service on a wide range of civic organizations?, Joe? has demonstrated his deep affection for ??the community. ?”?Like me, Joe ran a campaign about putting our communities first, because that’s what’s most important.?? I look forward to working with Joe in any? ?way I can to improve the communities in District 1 and throughout the City.?”
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