Mark Kairis to leave City Council, Travis Paden files for reelection | Politics

“First and foremost, I’ve been humbled and honored to serve this community,” Kairis said.

Kairis explained that his desire to enjoy family, friends and retirement drove his surprise decision to step away from Hanford City Council.

“I don’t think people understand the commitment it takes to serve the public,” Kairis said. “I need to be there for my family.”

Kairis thanked City staff and fellow council members for their hard work, saying: “Every great organization comes down to the people.”

He said he spent his time in office supporting farmers and public safety personnel, as well as advocating for enhancements to City infrastructure, transportation and overall quality of life.

“The City of Hanford is deeply grateful for Mayor Kairis’ service to the City of Hanford, including his excellent leadership as Mayor. Since assuming office as a council member, he has devoted an incredible amount of time and energy into his role and has consistently demonstrated the highest levels of professionalism, respect, thoughtfulness and collaboration — through achievements and adversity,” said Brian Johnson, Hanford’s community relations manager.

“It’s just the right time for me,” Kairis said. “My heart is heavy, but my heart is full.”

Kairis will continue to serve the rest of his term until his successor takes up his mantle.

Now, Kairis’s Hanford City Council seat (representing District E), Travis Paden’s seat (District A), and Lou Martinez’s seat (District D) are all up for election on Nov. 3 this year.

Martinez recently announced that he is also leaving City Council, making the races for District E and District D a wide open field.

However, that’s not the case for District A.

“I have officially filed my candidate paperwork and am seeking re-election to the Hanford City Council, District A,” Paden said.