Editor's note: This story was updated at 4:36 p.m. on Sept. 19 to reflect Stephen Tyler Holman's career title.
Ward 7 Councilmember Stephen Tyler Holman announced his candidacy for mayor of Norman in a press release Thursday.
Holman, who has served 11 years on the Norman City Council, shared his intent to run for mayor on Facebook, posting, “The rumors are true, I’m running for Mayor!"
Holman told OU Daily the reason for his candidacy was a mixture of both his experience as a council member and his long history in Norman.
“I've spent a third of my life serving on the city council here in Norman. (I) grew up here. My dad grew up here, my grandfather, my great-grandfather, and I've just always really loved Norman,” Holman said.
Holman is a real estate agent and works the door at The Deli on Campus Corner weekly, according to his profile on the city’s website. Holman is currently the longest-serving member on council.
According to his campaign website, Holman’s main priorities as mayor will be improving public services and maintaining financial and economic sustainability. In an interview with OU Daily, Holman said he wanted to prioritize affordable housing because of its environmental and fiscal effects on Norman.
“Not only environmental sustainability for the city of Norman, but fiscal sustainability. Developing the city in a way that is fiscally sustainable and responsible, meaning we're not building more infrastructure than we can afford to maintain without going into debt,” Holman said.
The primary election for mayor is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 11. Holman is unable to run for both mayor and Ward 7’s council seat, according to the city charter.
This story was edited by Peggy Dodd and Anusha Fathepure. Grace Rhodes copy edited this story.
