Here's the e-mail Ken Welch sent around the other day about his mayoral deliberations:

Dear Friend -

This week I have received many questions from friends and associates regarding my political plans. These questions were the result of recent media and web reports regarding the 2009 Mayoral election in St. Petersburg, and reports that I am considering entering the race. Your support during my two terms on the County Commission has been invaluable, so I want to make sure that you know what my thoughts are considering the Mayor's race.

I am giving serious consideration to entering the 2009 Mayor's race, and I will make a final decision by the end of this month. I would be required to resign my County Commission seat to run for Mayor, so this is not a decision to be made lightly. However, as a St. Pete resident and native, I care deeply about our community, and feel that I have the experience, vision and leadership to continue the significant progress that we have made under the leadership of Mayor Baker, Mayor Fischer, as well as many Council Members and community leaders.

I will let you know what my final decision is by month's end, and would appreciate your support if that decision is in the affirmative. As always, your counsel and thoughts are welcome. Thanks for your support and collaboration, and have a great New Year!

Ken Welch

Adam Smith, Times Staff Writer

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