By NICOLE LOGGINS / Staff Writer

 COLUMBIANA – Dr. Stancil Handley has a vision for Columbiana. So much so that he announced on Dec. 10 that he will be running for mayor.

“It’s an opportunity for Columbiana to step up. I think I am the man to help do that,” Handley said.

Handley has been a Columbiana City Council member since 2008, and said that he began considering running for mayor this year.

“Rural settings are becoming more and more rare in Shelby County, and Columbiana has it. We need to take advantage of that,” he said.

The former U.S. Army Veteran has had a private optometry practice in Columbiana for 31 years. Handley is the former president and current member of the Columbiana Beautification Board and also a member of the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce.

Handley said he would like to see Columbiana take advantage of its rich history and highlight events that are unique to the area.

“I am ready to make the transition to being full-time mayor and part-time doctor,” Handley said.

Handley plans to begin officially campaigning in mid-March or early April. The official qualifying term is July 3-17 and the election will be held on Aug. 28.