I just received this from Charles Ramsey:

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As you know, I grew up in the City of Richmond. Richmond is where my parents taught me that community service and helping others was an essential part of life, and that a good education was the great equalizer. 

Those lessons motivated me to serve more than twenty years on the West Contra Costa School Board working to make a difference. 

It is that same desire to serve that prompted me to declare my candidacy for Mayor of Richmond as our city faces huge challenges. 

After careful thought and consideration, I believe I can be more effective and get more things done as a Councilmember rather than as Mayor.
  
On the City Council I will focus on bringing new jobs and investments into our city, increasing the safety of our neighborhoods, and creating new opportunities for our residents and businesses to thrive. 

Your trust and support has been humbling.  I hope you’ll continue to support my City Council campaign so that together we can work to put Richmond back on the right track. 
Sincerely,
Charles Ramsey