During a city council meeting in Nelson Monday night, Tammi Loggins announced that she will no longer pursue the candidacy for a city council seat.She said when she initially made the decision to run she thought she could help out, but

“was not prepared for the adventure”

that was ahead of her. Loggins added that she would love to see the town come together, but was very upset to see the town so divided lately. However, she felt all citizens of Nelson have a common goal. Loggins also commented that she was sad to see some of the things that have happened in the last month, which, she said, discouraged her. She did not, however, cite examples.

“I felt I could bring a wealth of knowledge with me to support the city and help the city,”

she said,

“but, unfortunately, it’s not in my best interest to stay in the race, so therefore, I’ve decided to step down.”

Before leaving the podium, she commended the sitting council, saying they were doing a great job, and that she supports them one hundred percent, offering her help to the council if they ever needed it.

Laurel Lake Resident Edith Portillo, however, will remain in the race for a city council seat.

“I am for all of Nelson,”

she said,

“not just Laurel Lake, or any one part of our wonderful city, but the entire city.”

She said her priorities will include moving forward with the recreation center and park project. She also said she would focus on ensuring police protection and retaining the sanitation service in Nelson. Moreover, Portillo emphasized she is not for raising taxes.

“People work hard for their money they receive,”

she said,

“and it is wrong for any government to think it knows how to spend your money better than you do, yourself.”

Portillo also commended the council for their hard work.