Indian Wells Councilman Larry Spicer has announced that he won’t be seeking re-election this fall.

Spicer, finishing his second term on council, admitted he had “very mixed feelings” about the decision.

But in a statement read at Thursday’s council meeting and shared with The Desert Sun, Spicer said this will allow him to travel and enjoy more time with his family.

Here’s Spicer’s statement in its entirety:

“With election fever upon us, this is an important time for me to reflect upon whether I wish to seek re-election.

“I looked at my first election campaign material of 2005 to remind myself of the reasons why I was running for  council.  I said this is my community and it is my responsibility to help make it better.  I also said I love Indian Wells, where I have lived with my wife, Patty, for 29 years and raised our children.

“Now, we have lived here for 36 years and my love for our city and passion to see it thrive is even stronger.  But I also said I believed that in any organization, fresh vision, new perspectives, and renewed energy are all necessary ingredients for success.

“Currently, I am completing my second term on Council, following 5 years on the planning commission and one-and-a-half years on the Architecture and Landscape Committee. This a total of 13-and-a-half  years.

“Upon reflection and risking appearing immodest, I think I have fulfilled the goals I talked about in 2005 and I have contributed to the beauty, security, and quality of life in Indian Wells.  It is a great honor for me to be a councilmember and to have served with past councils and with my colleagues on this council.

“Another consideration for me is that I advocated council term limits of two consecutive four-year terms.  As you recall, this was approved in the November, 2010 election by an 80% voter approval.  Because it is not retroactive, I would be free to run again.

“Consequently, taking stock of all of these considerations, I have decided with very mixed feelings not to run for re-election.

“This choice will allow more free time to spend with my family, do some travelling,  and do other things retired folks are supposed to like. However, I will continue to be actively involved with several not-for-profit organizations in the Valley and I remain vitally interested in the continued success of our city.

“I thank this council, city staff, and especially the residents of Indian Wells who over the years have encouraged me, shared their wisdom,  and supported me in my public service to our city.”

Insider readers might remember that Spicer was one of two council incumbents who should be on the November ballot but had yet to say whether they would seek another term. La Quinta Mayor Don Adolph also is still keeping his plans  under wraps.