City Council member Brent Taylor has formally announced a decision that has been privately known for some time: Taylor, who was first elected in 1995 to represent District 2 (Cordova) and was the council’s best-known and most consistent conservative, will not seek a fourth term.
A ready man with a hard-edged quip, Taylor was the subject of headlines back in 2004 when an irate Mayor Willie Herenton, in the course of a heated meeting, asked him outside.
That argument, over personnel matters, blew over. But until Taylor began preparing his exit over the last year, he could be depended on as a headline-maker and as an exponent of minimalist government.
Taylor made a serious run for Congress in 2002, but, after his defeat by Marsha Blackburn in a multi-candidate field, he began to concentrate on his business interests in the funeral-home business. Most recently he purchased two out-of-county funeral homes – one in Mississippi, the other in Tipton County.
–jb
Following is a press release, bearing Tuesday’s date, from political consultant Layne Provine:
Brent Taylor announces plans to leave Council at end of term
Councilman Brent Taylor today announced plans to retire from the City Council at the end of his term. Taylor, elected in 1995, will complete his third term at the end of this year.
“It has been a privilege to serve Memphians on the City Council. I will always be grateful for this honor,” remarked Taylor.
Taylor, a funeral home owner, purchased Hernando Funeral Home in 2004 and Munford Funeral Home late last year. He said one of the primary reasons for his retirement from the council is to devote more time to his business.
“I have a new business and a young family. I also feel that after 12 years on the Council, it’s time to give someone else the opportunity to bring new ideas to our city,” said Taylor. “I hope my successor enjoys representing Memphians on the Council as much as I have. It has been a real pleasure,” he stated.
Taylor, a Republican, has been known as a strong conservative voice on the Council. He opposed increased government regulation of businesses, and he voted against every tax increase during his three terms.
Taylor is married to Kimberly and they have a 10 year old son, Gage, and a six year old daughter, Molly. He represents District 2 on the Council which includes Cordova, East Memphis, Hickory Hill, and Trafalgar Village.
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