Skousen enters crowded mayor's race

Don Skousen is getting back in the race for Gilbert public office, and this time he's seeking the town's highest office.

Skousen, a councilman who announced last June2008 his intentions to retire when his current term ends in mid-2009, is running for mayor.

Skousen, 73, made the decision late last week and confirmed his plans with The Gilbert Republic on Monday morning.

"A little change of plans. We'll see how it goes," Skousen said. "Give folks a chance to see if they want change."

Skousen, who has been on the council since 2001, enters an increasingly crowded race for mayor. The municipal election is set for March, with a May general election if necessary.

Steve Berman, the two-term incumbent who has faced a rash of criticism about his leadership and character in recent months, is seeking re-election.

Berman did not immediately return a phone call seeking comment.

In addition, former councilman Dave Petersen threw his hat into the mayor's race last week when he formed his "Petersen For Mayor" campaign committee.

Eric Hurley, a 21-year-old resident also has formed a mayoral campaign committee, as has Kevin Adams, chief operations officer of Cable Shopping Network.

Candidates still must turn in signatures to the Town Clerk's Office to get on the ballot. The deadline to do so is Dec. 10.

Reach the reporter at mike.walbert@arizonarepublic.com.