After careful consideration, I have decided to withdraw my name as a candidate for the upcoming May 19 Town Council Election.

The coronavirus crisis has prompted me to reevaluate some of my personal goals. I have realized that I need to devote more time to my business, which is growing rapidly right now, and to my family. I am selling my in-town home and building a new home on one of my farms in the county. I have farmed over the years but have never lived on a farm with my animals even though I have always wanted to. So, my wife and I have decided that now is the time to give it a try. Of course, when we get older, we will likely move back to town. It is a great place to live.

My other reason for withdrawing is that my brother, Richard Conner, decided to run for mayor. My brother is a really good person and I fully support him. He and I have different views on many things, but I know he will do his best for the town. I do not think that two family members should serve on the same elected body at the same time. I know our dad, Sonny Conner, who served on the Town Council in the 1970s, felt the same way and that he would have approved of me stepping aside and supporting my brother.

Finally, it has been a pleasure to serve the town for the last 10 years. I believe that I have helped the town be fiscally conservative, and that is helping us deal with the current crisis. Even though I am officially withdrawing my candidacy, my name will still be on the ballot. Instead of voting for me, I hope you will continue to vote for candidates who will show restraint in unnecessary spending.

- Steven T. Conner, Appomattox

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