Wilmington Riverfront Development Corp. chief Mike Purzycki won the Democratic primary by a margin of less than 150 votes over Eugene Young, closely followed by longtime City Councilman Kevin Kelley.
Purzycki issued the following statement:
“I am honored tonight to be the Democratic nominee for the office of Mayor of the City of Wilmington. It has been a long journey, but in my view, the unprecedented level of interest in this office, coupled with the character and caliber of those seeking it, speaks volumes about the care and concern we all have for Wilmington. I want to thank each of my opponents for the spirited discussions and debates and ask them to help me as we work with the common goal of bettering the city we all love so dearly.
“From the outset of this campaign, I have been utterly humbled by the graciousness and generosity of those who’ve given me their support and encouragement. I thank you from the bottom of my heart and pledge to honor the faith you’ve placed in me by continuing this campaign of potential and possibilities. For those whose support I have yet to earn, I promise to work tirelessly to unite our city, and if elected, I will govern with open ears, an open mind and an open heart.”
Purzycki enjoyed strong support from the business community and ran a smooth, well-financed campaign. Young came out of nowhere to take second place, with a campaign emphasizing new ideas and making use of social media platforms.
Under Purzycki, the state-owned Riverfront Development Corp. was able to attract hundreds of millions of dollars in new development, with plans under way for further expansion and a connecting road into the area.
Kelley worked hard in the city’s neighborhoods and had a broad base of support.
