Terry Weld, left, has spent the past 12 years as either a member of the city Plan Commission or the City Council, the past four as president.

The top spot on the Eau Claire City Council will open up next spring, as City Council President Terry Weld has announced he won’t seek re-election to the position, which he has held for nearly four years.

Weld, who was elected council president in April 2019 after serving two years as an at-large member of the council and six years on the city Plan Commission, announced Thursday, Dec. 1, that he won’t run for a third term.

“Eau Claire has been my home for most of my life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have served the 70,000 residents of our city these past 12 years,” he said. “It is because of their voices, passion, and drive that we have become this amazing city where we live, work, and play.”

Weld added: “I would also like to express my sincere appreciation for the many dedicated and talented individuals I have met and worked with, including past and president City Council members, our incredible city staff, former City Manager Dale Peters, Interim City Manager Dave Solberg, and current City Manager Stephanie Hirsch. Each of them having selflessly given their hearts, minds, and souls to our city.”

Weld said he will serve out his term until mid-April, after which he “plans to continue working and enjoying extra time with family and friends.”

In his announcement Weld endorsed current council Vice President Emily Berge as his replacement. Berge, who has represented District 1 on the council since 2018, announced her candidacy at the same time as Weld announced his departure. 

“She has worked tirelessly serving her district and the City of Eau Claire these past five years,” Weld said of Berge. “She is trusted, experienced, and compassionate about our city and our residents and I’m certain will continue to be a positive, respectful, and productive leader as our great city moves forward.”

The post of City Council president will be on the ballot in the April 4, 2023, election. Thursday, Dec. 1, was the first day candidates for the position could circulate nomination papers, and Dec. 23 is the last day an incumbent could notify the city they aren’t running again. Candidates have until Jan. 3 to file their statements of candidacy, nomination papers, and campaign finance registration statements with the city.