TROY — Jack Cox Jr., who made an unsuccessful independent bid for mayor in 2011, said he's ready to try again this year.

Cox's family is known for its battles with City Hall over towing, development projects and the family auto business. Most of those struggles involve Cox's father.

Cox intends to reverse his 2011 fortunes when he failed to get on the November ballot. He was tossed from the electoral struggle after Republican Carmella Mantello's campaign successfully challenged his nominating petitions.

Cox later endorsed Mayor Lou Rosamilia, the Democratic candidate, who won the election.

Cox said he's no longer a Democrat and has restored his status as an independent, or blank, voter. He said he will seek the endorsement of each party in the city.

Mantello and Councilman Jim Gordon have each expressed interest in obtaining the Republican nomination for mayor. Gordon is favored by the GOP leadership.

On the Democratic side, Rosamilia has not yet made an announcement on whether he will seek a second four-year term. Democrats and Republicans are waiting to see what Rosamilia, who is considered to be popular with city voters, will do.

Rosamilia is know for being deliberate in his decision making. He has indicated he will make an announcement within the next couple of months.

Council President Rodney Wiltshire, a Democrat, has expressed interest in the past to eventually run for mayor. Ernest Everett had held a fund raiser and said he plans to seek the Democratic nomination.