Distinguished actual property developer Thomas O’Brien mentioned he has modified his thoughts and not plans to run for mayor of Boston.
O’Brien, founding associate and managing director of HYM Funding Group, had been planning to launch a marketing campaign in opposition to Mayor Michelle Wu and candidate Josh Kraft this week, a supply near his marketing campaign mentioned final Friday.
“I gave careful consideration to running for mayor of Boston because I care deeply about this city and have always looked for meaningful ways to serve,” O’Brien mentioned in a Monday assertion. “After many conversations with people I know, trust and admire, I’ve decided not to pursue a political candidacy at this time.”
O’Brien, 61, mentioned his “commitment to Boston remains unwavering” and that he appears ahead to partnering with “Mayor Wu, her administration and others” to “make our city a more affordable, inclusive and vibrant place to live, work and thrive.”
“I will continue my work with HYM Investment Group and my engagement with Boston’s charitable and civic life,” O’Brien mentioned. “I’m deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to offer encouragement, insights and support.”
O’Brien’s HYM Funding Group is behind main redevelopment initiatives just like the Authorities Heart Storage downtown and Suffolk Downs in East Boston.
Wu, in curious timing, held a marketing campaign occasion earlier within the day in East Boston, the place O’Brien, previous planning chief beneath former Mayor Thomas Menino, had reportedly been planning to launch his mayoral marketing campaign.
On the occasion, Wu introduced endorsements from three metropolis and state officers who signify the East Boston neighborhood: state Sen. Lydia Edwards, state Rep. Adrian Madaro and Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata.
“Mayor Wu believes we all have a role to play in our city’s future and is glad to see that Mr. O’Brien plans to do so in other ways,” a Wu marketing campaign spokesperson mentioned in a press release.
With O’Brien’s choice, Kraft, son of the billionaire New England Patriots proprietor Robert Kraft and longtime philanthropist, stays Wu’s solely outstanding challenger within the mayoral race.
“I understand that running for office is a deeply personal decision,” Kraft mentioned in a press release. “I have great respect for Tom and his commitment to many community organizations.”
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