John James, current City of Sammamish councilmember, announced Monday he will not run for re-election.

James, who holds council position No. 1, was elected in 2009. He said that he is considering running for the Port of Seattle Commission, but has not made a formal announcement.

“We currently don’t have any Eastside representation on the port,” James said.

The councilman has an extensive business background, which he believes will continue to be an asset to the region as he considers running for a countywide elected office. He has managed and run regional and national real estate companies doing business in the area. Currently, he is an Executive Business Consultant with Coldwell Banker Real Estate responsible for Washington and the Northwest.

“My passion for transportation and economic development issues has led me to consider serving in another capacity,” James said.

James remains proud of several his commitment to working for the youth of the Sammamish, specifically building partnerships with the Boys and Girls Club in the development of the Teen Center and the YMCA for the planned Community and Aquatic Center.

James, a deputy mayor in 2012, is also member of the Community and Economic Development Committee focusing on launching the long planned Town Center, the Eastside Transportation Partnership and recently was a Board Member for the Seattle King County Economic Development Council.

“It is an honor serving the Citizens of Sammamish, and I look forward to the remainder of my term and finishing the multiple tasks still ahead,” he said. “Hopefully, someone with similar mainstream views will step-up to fill the position I currently represent.”