Joplin City Councilman Phil Stinnett says he does not want to be re-elected to the council.
Stinnett earlier today issued a statement saying he would not actively campaign. Asked by the Globe to clarify his statement, Stinnett said he does not want voters to return him to office. He said he cannot imagine constituents voting for him “but, if I were elected, I would resign the seat.”
He said he believes it is in the best interests of residents, the city, him and his family for him to attend to his health issues. Stinnett recently underwent heart bypass surgery and said he faces treatment for some other health problems.
Stinnett said he will try to attend Monday night’s regular meeting of the council if his doctor concurs that he has recovered enough from the surgery.
Stinnett has served 12 years on the council.
