Mary Norwood to challenge Councilman Aaron Watson in an attempt to reclaim her former citywide seat

• Joeff Davis/CL File
• Mary Norwood

Former City Councilwoman and mayoral candidate Mary Norwood has decided to make a last-minute bid to win back her old citywide position.

According to several sources at City Hall, Norwood is filing the paperwork needed to challenge Councilman Aaron Watson, who has held the seat for the past four years. Norwood was first elected to Post 2 At-Large in 2001 and served the city in that role for eight years.

In 2009, Norwood almost became Atlanta’s mayor. She received more than 45 percent of the votes in the general election - more than any other candidate. Since no one received a majority of the votes, Norwood and Kasim Reed faced off in a mayoral runoff. Ultimately, she lost to the current mayor by a 700-vote margin.

Watson had already picked up a candidate last month in Buckhead attorney David Andrew Cox. Norwood’s potential decision to mount a campaign arguably makes this the most compelling Council race in what’s seemed to be a relatively quiet election season.

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UPDATE, 12:31 p.m.: Mary Norwood has a new website that she just launched. Her platform, Norwood’s website says, will emphasize accountability, smart development, fighting crime, and improving transit.

She also sent out the following announcement:

On Friday, August 30th, I filed to run for Atlanta City Council as your Citywide Representative. It will be an honor to continue working on your behalf.

For over two decades of community service and eight years representing all of the voters of Atlanta, it has been my privilege to serve you. Your vote on November 5th will enable me to continue working for you.

I know Atlanta. Atlanta knows me. My priorities are well known, but at the top of my list is SAFETY. Nothing is more important than keeping you, your family, your community, and your schools safe.

PUBLIC SAFETY. FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY. TRANSPARENCY IN CITY GOVERNMENT. TRAFFIC. GREENSPACE.

These are the issues I’m fighting for. But this takes teamwork. To make me the most effective city council representative for you, I’ll need your input. I want your questions, your guidance, your advice, and your knowledge. Your quality of life matters to me. Just as I have always done, I’ll be listening to you; meeting with you in your communities; and responding to your needs and concerns.

I have the experience. I have a proven track record of success. I am committed to making your life in Atlanta the best it can be. You deserve good value for your tax dollars. You deserve quality city services. You deserve City Council representatives who put you first.

I have done that in the past. I will do it again. I know Atlanta. Atlanta knows me. Put me to work and let me do what I do best: work for you.

Norwood currently has no money in her campaign war chest since she just filed her paperwork.