Wall Eyes Ann Arbor Mayoral Campaign

In a press release issued Thursday afternoon, Feb. 9, Tom Wall said he is considering a run for Ann Arbor mayor and is asking for support to fill crucial positions – including campaign manager and fundraising director – before making a final decision. [.pdf of Wall's announcement] Wall is owner of All Star Driver Education, and has run for mayor twice before.

In November 2006, Wall ran as an independent against incumbent Democrat John Hieftje, getting 21% of the vote. In August 2008, Wall contested the Democratic primary against Hieftje, getting 31% of the vote.

In his press release, Wall attributes his previous election performance to not having the “necessary organizational support.” He asks for people to step forward to fill the roles of campaign manager, campaign promoter, recruiter, fundraising director, and communications director.

Wall outlined several goals he would hope to pursue as mayor, including “giving Ann Arbor back to the people,” not making cuts to police and firefighters, maintaining city streets year-round with an emphasis on pothole repair and snow removal, and asking voters to weigh in on large projects that have apparent opposition.

In addition to his work at All Star Driver Education, Wall is founder of the T. Wall Foundation, which supports special needs children and their families. Before retiring in 2000, he taught special education in the Willow Run school district for 30 years. He is also active in several civic groups and volunteer efforts.