Forrest Owens will not seek reelection to the Germantown Board of Mayor and Aldermen in 2020, he confirmed Friday, Aug. 14.

Forrest Owens resigns from Lakeland position

Owens was elected to Position 4 in 2012 and is finishing his second term. He served as vice mayor in 2016. 

“After careful discussion with my family, I have decided I will not seek reelection as a Germantown alderman,” he said. “I have been in the position for eight years, and I am proud of the work we have accomplished.”

Owens, who also is stepping down as planning director for the City of Lakeland, has served in Germantown as liaison to the ADA Access Review Board, Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Commission, Design Review Commission and Planning Commission. He also spent time on the Parks and Recreation Commission.

Some of the city’s achievements during his time include an addition to Riverdale Elementary, the construction and opening of Forest Hill Elementary and adding two police districts. Germantown also added three miles to the greenway trail and is developing the Parks and Recreation Master Plan.

He also noted the strong business ties Germantown has developed, attracting grocery stores, restaurants and retail including Trader Joe’s, Southern Social and stores at Shops of Saddle Creek.

They have contributed to “millions of dollars and quality growth,” he said.

He has not yet endorsed any of the candidates who have announced plans to seek Position 4. Rod Motley and John Paul Mills have pulled petitions for the seat. Brian Ueleke has received sufficient signatures on his petition. 

Owens did note, however, that he hopes the individual elected continues the work the board has begun.

“Eight years is a long time to serve,” he said. “It’s time for new leadership with fresh ideas. I am grateful to the residents of Germantown for giving me the opportunity. I am humbled and have been strengthened from it.”