Williams served eight terms on the council before leaving to mount an unsuccessful challenge of Mayor Domenic Sarno two years ago.
Former Springfield City Council member Bud L. Williams speaks during the 13th Annual Dads Make a Difference program at Magazine Park in May. Williams has announced his intentions to run for Springfield City Council again.SPRINGFIELD – Citing the need for leadership as the city rebuilds from last month’s tornado, former city councilor and mayoral candidate Bud L. Williams has decided to run for City Council.
Williams, a retired probation officer and chairman of the Ward 7 Democratic Committee, served eight terms on the council before leaving to mount an unsuccessful challenge of Mayor Domenic J. Sarno in 2009.
He announced his candidacy last week.
“Behind every great challenge lies a great opportunity,” said Williams, of 155 Overlook Drive, referring to the June 1 storm that demolished 22 homes and businesses in Springfield and damaged more than 1,000 others.
“The work that we do now and the following years to come in response to the challenges that are impacting our quality of life and the stability of city residents will chart the course for the health and future of our city for generations to come,” he added.
While rebuilding from the tornado, the city must confront other issues, including fighting crime, creating jobs and improving education, Williams said.
Williams held a fund-raiser last week that drew a number of prominent political figures, including state Sen. James T. Welch, D-West Springfield; state Rep. Benjamin Swan, D-Springfield, who spoke at the event, and City Councilors Kateri B. Walsh and Melvin A. Edwards. School Committee members Barbara Gresham and Peter M. Murphy also attended.