Green Bay Mayor Jim Schmitt made it official on Tuesday: He will not seek another term as the leader of Titletown.

Schmitt told city staff about his decision during an appreciation reception for board members and commissioners at City Hall.

He told the crowd that he would finish his term strong, but that it was time for someone else to step up.

Asked what his plans are, Schmitt admitted he isn't sure, "Which surprises me, because I'm a planner."

One thing he won't do, he says, is run for political office.

"I am not going to run for anything. That was the last you saw me on the ballot. I've had 10 contested elections, you know. Thankfully I am 10 and 0. I am not up for that process right now. Higher office is not what I am going to do."

Although Schmitt isn't running again, he says he remains focused on finishing redevelopment projects he helped start, including Hotel Northland, which he says will open on August 1, 2018.

"Whatever I do, it's going to help the city of Green Bay, because I have such a love for this city. But, uh (emotional) all things move on, and I'll do that in April of '19, and between now and then we're going to work together, we're going to have a lot of fun and keep this one of the greatest cities on the planet."

Earlier in the day, Mayor Schmitt released a written statement saying he loves the City of Green Bay but he's looking to pursue "other things."

"I'm interested in pursuing other things when my term is completed, and I'm hopeful that someone with vision, a strong work ethic, and of course, someone who loves this City, will run for Mayor for the 2019 election."

"I won't turn over the city to shallow thinkers, vindictive personalities, or those with selfish motives," the statement continues. "This City needs strong, educated leadership. So let's celebrate our accomplishments, and then, tomorrow let's work together to find quality candidates for the legislative branch in April 2018, and the best candidates for the executive branch in 2019."

Schmitt became the city's 41st mayor in April, 2003. Since then he's been re-elected three times. His 14 years on the job make him the second-longest serving mayor in Green Bay's history.

His focus has been on downtown redevelopment. Projects include the CityDeck, Green Bay Children's Museum, new riverfront apartments, and the troubled Hotel Northland project.

Schmitt recently signed the city's 2018 budget.

In Dec. 2016,

In October, five Green Bay alders asked the Brown County District Attorney's Office to open an investigation into allegations that Schmitt diverted $3.2 million in public funds to a bank account used by Northland owner Keith Harenda.

Alderman Guy Zima, a long time foil for Mayor Schmitt, accused Schmitt of perjury, ongoing intent to deceive, fraud, and violation of public trust.

Mayor Schmitt said the aldermen's "explanations of the events that transpired in the last 10 months regarding the Hotel Northland reveal a deep misunderstanding of financing and banking."

"If not for these alders' obstructionist tactics, the Hotel Northland would have long been open by now," Schmitt said.

As for possible candidates for the mayoral position, State Rep. Eric Genrich tweeted Tuesday that he would make a decision about the race early next year.

Another person showing interest is County Board Supervisor Patrick Evans. He's says it's something he will think about after the April election.

Action 2 News will continue to update this developing story.