Demopolis Mayor Mike Grayson announced Friday that he would seek re-election this August.

“I’m excited,” Grayson said of having served the past four years and seeking another four. “The city has maintained stability and even seen some growth in some pretty tough economic times.”

As the nation struggles to free itself from a sluggish economy, Grayson said the city has seen a modest tax base growth of approximately two percent over prior years.

Among the projects in the works, Grayson cited seeing the Intermodal Complex to fruition was high on his priority list for the coming term. Also in progress is a major water project on Jackson Street and a paving project on Sunset Road, among others.

“I’d like to be able to finish these projects,” he said of the plans that would carry the next administration well into 2013, “and I’d like to put more emphasis on waterway development.”

Harnessing the power of Demopolis’ twin waterways, Grayson said, will be the key to making the city stand taller in the region.

“Not just commercial and industrial development, but recreational as well,” he said. “That will lead to economic development for industry and tourism.”

Among the items Grayson cites as disappointments in his first term is a to-date failed attempt to establish a Sports and Tourism Commissioner as well as the lack of a two year college partner for the school system.

“A Sports and Tourism Commission, if put in place and worked properly, would bring people – and dollars – to Demopolis,” he said of a director, who would seek out sporting events for the city’s rivers and facilities.

The process to bring a two year college to Demopolis has been an ongoing process Grayson noted, but has yet to produce a viable partner although those efforts continue.

“Just when we think we’re close, we have to take a few steps back,” he said. “But we’re still working on it. We’re getting closer.”

Qualification for candidates seeking office will open July 3. The election will be held Aug. 28.