Mt. Airy Mayor Ray McAllister announced at Monday night’s city council meeting that he will not seek re-election in the upcoming November 2025 municipal elections. The announcement marks the end of nearly three decades of public service for McAllister in Mt. Airy.
“This is year 2025. This is my election year,” McAllister said. “Unless something changes my mind between now and August, I will not be seeking re-election for the council of Mt. Airy. I’ve given, including Planning and Zoning, 29 years. It’s time,” he added, addressing the council with a sense of finality.
Reflecting on his tenure, McAllister expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community. “I’ve enjoyed working with everyone over the years, and I hope we can have a great 2025,” he said.
McAllister, a Habersham County native who grew up in White County, has deep roots in the area. He returned to Habersham in 1970 and served in the U.S. Air Force from 1971 to 1975, spending time at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. A Vietnam Era veteran, McAllister later worked at Ethicon and recently retired from the company.
Public service
His public service career began in the mid-1990s when he joined the city’s Planning and Zoning Committee. McAllister has served 24 years on the city council, with the last four years serving as mayor.
The announcement marks the end of a long chapter in the city’s history, and it sets the stage for new leadership in Mt. Airy. The upcoming municipal elections in November 2025 will determine the next mayor and council members.
After McAllister’s announcement, Councilman Adam Tullis indicated that he may be a candidate for mayor. “I have had the privilege of working closely with Mayor Ray McAllister over the past 14 years and I value the strong working relationship we have built. If Mayor McAllister decides not to seek re-election, I intend to run for mayor” he said.
McAllister’s leadership and years of service to the city will be remembered by those who have worked alongside him in the pursuit of progress for Mt. Airy.
