EAST FORSYTH — For the second time this week, a Forsyth County commissioner has decided against seeking re-election.
On Thursday, it was two-term Republican District 5 Commissioner Jim Boff announcing via an email that he would not be running this spring. He was first elected in 2008 and re-elected in 2012.
In the email, Boff wrote that the decision was made “following much introspection and discussions with my family.” He encouraged potential candidates to run.
“Our county has seen significant growth and change over the last seven years,” he wrote. “While we still have important and challenging issues to face going forward, I am hopeful that one or more candidates will present themselves to the voters to serve the citizens of District 5 and Forsyth County.”
Reached later by phone, Boff confirmed the email but declined to comment further on his decision.
Commissioners in Forsyth are elected by district-only voting. District 5 covers much of eastern Forsyth. Qualifying for the May 24 general primary is next week.
The only candidate who has publicly announced his intent to seek the District 5 seat is Republican Justin Hawkins, a South Forsyth High graduate and pharmaceutical sales representative.
Boff is the second member of Forsyth’s governing body in a four-day span to announce that this term will be his last. On Monday, Brian Tam said he would not pursue a fourth term in the District 2 post he first won in 2004.
Their decisions mean there will be at least two new faces on the five-member commission next year.
The third seat that is up for re-election this year is District 4. Incumbent Cindy Jones Mills has previously said she will seek a second term.
In his email, Boff noted that work remains for his successor and the other commissioners.
“Our county commission needs to address the issues of appropriate residential zonings, the ability to vote for all county commissioners and a less onerous water purchase agreement negotiated with the city of Cumming.
“I am confident a new board will resolve these important concerns toward the best interests of all county residents.”
Boff also expressed gratitude for those who supported and worked with him.
“I give my heartfelt thanks to those of you who voted for me, who offered your advice, opinion and counsel and with whom I’ve worked to conduct my duties as commissioner.”
Prior to his time on the commission, Boff served as chairman of a citizens committee that selected transportation projects for a previous 1-cent sales tax program. He also worked in technical sales support of voice, data and optical fiber switches.
Boff and his wife, Cindy, have two daughters live in east Forsyth and attend Cumming First United Methodist Church.