Mayor Curtatone’s announcement that he would not be seeking re-election came as quite a surprise to some, not so much of a surprise to others.

Rumors to the effect one way or the other have been running rampant over the course of the past year or so. But only one person knew for certain … that is, once a firm decision had been made.

The mayor has not yet publicly disclosed what factors led to this decision, leaving anyone concerned to merely speculate and wait to see what course Mr. Curtatone will follow once he leaves office.

Are there plans to pursue higher office, perhaps at the state or national levels? Or could an entry into the private sector be in the cards?

And what of the contest to come in search of a successor to the office? How many contenders will emerge to test the waters and perhaps end up taking the plunge?

It seems as though the mayor’s announcement has brought about a plethora of questions that only time and future events can answer.

There are already plenty of names being bandied about, and many others are undoubtedly yet to emerge. It will make for interesting times for local politics. So, let the games begin.

In the meantime, let’s not be too hasty in planning Mr. Curtatone’s farewell party. He will still be running things for the better part of a year, and there is still a lot of weighty matters on his plate.

So, for now let’s wish him the best for his remaining time in office and for whatever comes in the future.