FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer announced Monday that he would seek a third term if Fresno voters approve a proposed amendment expanding term limits for the city’s elected leaders.
Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer says he’ll run for third term if Fresno voters expand term limits
The proposal, introduced by Fresno City Council President Nelson Esparza, would increase the limit for mayors and city council members from two consecutive four year terms to three.
The measure would also create a 12 year limit for each elected office while preventing former elected officials from returning to office after reaching that cap. If approved by the Fresno City Council, the amendment would go before voters in November.
Asked whether he would run again if voters approve the measure, Mayor Dyer says yes.
“As I stand here today, the answer is yes. I would run for a third term as mayor in the city of Fresno.”
Mayor Dyer said the proposal is about maintaining continuity in city government, arguing it takes years for elected leaders to learn the job and complete major projects.
He said it took him about three years to feel comfortable as mayor and that allowing a third term would help sustain the city’s momentum.
Esparza said the proposal is designed to strengthen city government while preventing “lifetime politicians.”
He said the amendment would close what he described as a “loophole” that has allowed former elected officials to cycle back into office after sitting out a term.
The term limit proposal is one of four governance measures city leaders unveiled on Monday. Another would create an advisory citizens redistricting commission to work with consultants during future redistricting efforts. Esparza said the commission would increase public participation while keeping the process transparent.