After 15 years on the board, Cumberland County Commissioner Jimmy Keefe announced Friday that he will not seek reelection in 2024.
In a video posted to Facebook, Keefe, 62, said he consulted with his family about the decision not to seek a fifth term.
“It is with mixed emotions that I announce this, but I am proud of the services and projects that I have been involved with as an elected representative,” he said. “ ... Having served in various appointed and elected positions for over 30 years, it has been an absolute honor to dedicate myself to the betterment of Fayetteville and Cumberland County.”
Keefe thanked his family and said he’d pursue new opportunities after his term ends in December 2024. He said via text Friday that he has no plans to pursue other elected offices.
“I remain committed to the wellbeing and prosperity of Fayetteville and Cumberland County and will always be a staunch advocate for the people that I have had the privilege to represent,” Keefe said in the video. “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the citizens of Cumberland County for their trust and support and confidence throughout this year.”
According to Cumberland County, Keefe was first selected to the board of commissioners in 2008, serving as chairman in 2013. He was a member of the Fayetteville City Council from 2001 to 2005. He is the owner of The Trophy House, a business started by his father in 1970 that produces awards and sculptures.
Keefe told CityView on Friday that he chose to announce his decision that day to give others who might be interested in his seat an opportunity to file. The filing period for the 2024 elections closes on Friday, Dec. 15.
“I feel like I’ve made some good, positive impact, and now it’s time to leave room for someone else,” Keefe said to CityView.
Keefe highlighted efforts like making the Crown Event Center in downtown Fayetteville a reality; the new Cumberland County 911 Center that opened in December 2022; and the swift water rescue training facility at Fayetteville Technical Community College, which opened last month.
Now, he said, he plans to rest and relax.
“A good rule is to always try to leave something better than you found it,” Keefe said. “I feel like the groups that I have worked with have made some good contributions to the community.”
Lexi Solomon can be reached at lsolomon@cityviewc.com.
