ROME — Former Rome Police Department detective Jeffrey M. Lanigan announced his candidacy for Mayor of Rome at the Franklin Hotel Tuesday evening.

Lanigan is the first candidate to throw his hat in the ring. Incumbent mayor Jacqueline M. Izzo has yet to announce if she will seek reelection. Both are Republicans.

"It's time for new energy and excitement to move this city forward," Lanigan told the gathered crowd of supporters.

"It's time for a new generation of leadership in this city."

Lanigan, age 40, said he will be running for the Republican Party nomination, with a primary scheduled for this spring.

Lanigan joined the Rome Police Department in 2008 as a patrolman and was promoted to detective in 2016. He retired early in 2022 following an on-the-job injury. Lanigan said he was not the type of person to sit around and just play golf in retirement.

"Over the last few months, I found myself keenly following the direction of the city, and to be blunt, I've been dismayed and saddened by what I've seen and heard," Lanigan said in his announcement speech.

"Crime, blight, lack of communication and the lack of participation of leadership from the current administration is what brought me here to this decision."

The candidate said his expertise and career in law enforcement give him the tools to fight for the City of Rome against rising crime statistics and statewide problems such as bail reform.

"I've always been the type to roll up my sleeves and contribute when I believe I can make a difference," Lanigan said.

"Like most cities in America, the City of Rome is facing significant challenges in public safety. I have a unique skill set to work with our men and women in the city's workforce to provide the tools they need to keep Romans safe. Public safety is more than just crime statistics. It's important that Rome is not only saved by the numbers, but is recognized by residents and visitors as a safe community."

He also highlighted private development in the city, and the "unprecedented" influx of state and federal funding coming into Rome. Smaller communities and governments, like Rome, will need to lead the way in local growth moving forward, Lanigan told the crowd.

"My mission is to ensure that Rome is a better place for everyone to live, work, play and raise our families," Lanigan said to applause.

"I've heard repeatedly from the community that eight years is enough for the current administration."

Lanigan introduced himself as being born, raised and educated in Rome, having gradated from Rome Free Academy. He and his wife, Melissa, have a 5-year-old son.

The candidate said he will have an official campaign kick-off event on March 1 at the Toccolana Club in Rome. He noted that an official website and social media presence are forthcoming.

Rome mayors serve for 4-year terms, and the current mayor, Jacqueline M. Izzo, is at the end of her second term. The Mayor of Rome has no term limits.

The annual salary for mayor in 2023 is $101,137, according to the city payroll department.