Lawrence out of Aurora mayoral contest

With less than two months to go before the election filing period starts, Aurora's mayoral contest is down to a two-horse race.

Fourth Ward Alderman Rick Lawrence, who had announced his plans to run in February, says he's withdrawing from the mayoral race to pursue an "interesting opportunity in business."

In addition to owning a local awning company, Lawrence said he recently invested in a new Aurora-based wind energy firm.

"I find that my commitments to my family and my employees who depend on a successful, viable company require my attention more than ever in this challenging economic climate," Lawrence said Monday. "Even though I believe that we would have the support of the people, this would not allow me to dedicate myself fully to the position of mayor at this time."

Neither of the remaining candidates, Third Ward Alderman Stephanie Kifowit and incumbent Mayor Tom Weisner, thought Lawrence leaving the race would have much effect on their campaigns.

"We haven't heard anything official from (Lawrence)," Weisner campaign manager Mike Wilson said Monday while knocking on doors. "But we're focused on our own campaign right now."

Kifowit said she's not changing her strategy because she believes another candidate will jump into the race before long.

"I've been saying since I started this that I don't think it will be a two-person race," Kifowit said. "There's going to be a few more twists and turns between now and December, but we already have a plan and we're going to stick to it pretty tight."

Lawrence said he will not back either of the remaining candidates. He said the city would be best suited for an "outsider" to step in.

"I want to encourage others to run," Lawrence said Monday. "I sincerely believe this city needs an honest individual who understands the complexities of government and more importantly understands the business aspects as well."

Despite not being on the mayoral ticket, Lawrence said he does intend to seek a second term as Fourth Ward alderman.

"If the people of the Fourth Ward will have me I'll be back and just a vigilant as I have been," he said. "When I'm in there I fight for everything I believe in. I'm not changing."