News

Arcata City Councilmember Mark Wheetley has dropped out of the race to become Humboldt County’s next Third District supervisor.

Wheetley, who was arrested last month on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, made the announcement in an email statement sent out this morning, citing “a number of personal and professional obligations” that would make it difficult to “sustain an effective and competitive campaign.”

Wheetley’s withdrawal leaves two announced candidates in the race: current Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Commissioner Mike Wilson and local businessman, horseman and farrier Uri Driscoll. Incumbent Mark Lovelace has announced he will not seek re-election.

In his announcement, copied in its entirety below, Wheetley states that he will continue to serve on the Arcata City Council until his term ends in December of 2018.

From Mark Wheetley:

Mark Wheetley to Withdraw Candidacy
for Third District Supervisor

After long and thoughtful consideration, I have decided to withdraw my candidacy for Third District Supervisor. Due to a number of personal and professional obligations, it would be difficult to sustain an effective and competitive campaign at this time in balance with those commitments.

I am thankful for all the support I have received from the people of the Third District and throughout Humboldt County. I will continue to serve the people of Arcata on the City Council until my term expires in December 2018.