RAPID CITY, S.D. – Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun discussed his decision not to seek reelection in 2027 and what he believes prospective candidates should consider before entering the race during the latest episode of “Meeting With the Mayor.”

Salamun announced this week that he will not seek another term after four years as mayor and six years on the Rapid City Common Council. The decision will conclude a decade in local elected office. His decision not to seek reelection was also confirmed in reporting following his announcement.

Salamun told host Murdoc that the choice was personal rather than political and came after months of consideration. He said Rapid City’s position and recent projects helped give him confidence that it was the right time to step away.

“There was something really intriguing about leaving the city on a strong note,” Salamun said.

Salamun pointed to new police precincts, fire stations, parks, the sports complex and investments in city streets among the work completed or underway during his time as mayor.

Much of the episode focused on what comes next for Rapid City. With an open mayoral seat expected in 2027, Salamun said potential candidates should first consider why they want the job, whether their families support the decision and what vision they have for the city. He also emphasized the personal demands of the position, describing the mayor’s job as a 24-hour responsibility.

“You gotta have a vision for this city,” Salamun said.

Salamun said he expects a field of candidates and noted that Rapid City’s election rules now require a candidate to receive more than 50% of the vote, potentially leading to a runoff.

Despite announcing his departure months ahead of the election, Salamun said he does not intend to slow down during the remainder of his term.

“My plan is to finish strong,” Salamun said. “I’m gonna run through the tape.”

Salamun said he will remain mayor until July 2027, when the office will be handed to his successor. For now, he said the question is less about his own future and more about the city’s.

“The question isn’t what’s next for me, but who’s next for Rapid City,” Salamun said.