POTSDAM – A town councilor says she is not running for a third four-year term, and wants to let potential candidates know in time to file petitions under new early deadlines.

Rose Rivezzi said the time for candidates to begin is short, since the date to start gathering signatures for designating petitions has been moved up to Feb. 26, under the state’s new schedule.

“Given the changes the state has implemented to the timeline for carrying petitions and caucus dates, I thought it best to publicly announce that I will not be seeking another term on the Potsdam Town Board,” Rivezzi said in a statement prepared for Tuesday night’s council meeting.

“I have learned a great deal about my community during these past years and I feel it would be good for the community for someone new to come forward and take a turn,” she said.

But she said the experience she has gained will still be useful to the board. “My intention is to continue to be available to help the Board if needed, especially in the context of helping with grant applications going forward.”

She said small local governments don’t have the benefit of full-time grant writers and her experience can be applied there.

During her tenure she was appointed deputy supervisor and has served on some active board committees, including those for recreation, the revised comprehensive plan and the climate smart initiative.

“I have appreciated the opportunity to serve,” and has enjoyed the chance to contribute, her statement concluded.