Springfield's Zone 4 city council election narrows to 2 candidates. Here's what changed
When the filing deadline closed last week, the race for Zone 4 was the most contested of the five positions up for election, with three candidates. Incumbent Matt Simpson, local architect Bruce Adib-Yazdi and lawyer Ray Lampert had all filed to run for the seat that covers the southeast quadrant of the city.
Now, the race is down to two as Lampert has decided to withdraw from the race.
He told the News-Leader on Monday his decision came after finding out Adib-Yazdi had filed for the candidacy.
"We decided that it would be better to have a two-way race rather than a three-way race," Lampert said. "And after speaking with him, I believe that his values and mine are very much in alignment. So, I didn't have any real reservations about withdrawing from the race, because I believe he would be a suitable candidate to run against the incumbent, and I want to express my support for his candidacy and his race."
Adib-Yazdi is the vice president of development at the Vecino Group and president of the Seminole-Holland Neighborhood Association. He previously ran in a tight race against current Councilman Derek Lee for the General D council seat in 2023.
Simpson has served on council since he was first appointed in 2018, winning elections twice since.
More: Who's running for Springfield City Council, mayor? These candidates will be on ballots
Lampert told the News-Leader earlier his main focus if elected would have been on access to public transportation, affordable housing and homeownership, and keeping the city desirable for newcomers. Lampert has previously run unsuccessfully for various state positions as a Democrat.
He told the News-Leader he is not ruling out any future runs for local government positions.
Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Ray Lampert withdraws from Springfield city council election race
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