Farmers Branch mayor who led immigration battle will not seek reelection

by BRAD WATSON
WFAA
Posted on January 6, 2011 at 9:24 PM

Updated today at 9:41 PM

FARMERS BRANCH - Say the name Farmers Branch and the first word you may think of is "immigration."

Now, the man who has led the city in its contentious and costly battle to keep illegal immigrants from renting homes and who has pushed for the city to form its own school district made a stunning announcement Thursday.

Mayor Tim O'Hare won't seek reelection.

With his wife ready to give birth to their first child, O'Hare is giving up politics for parenthood.

“It's been a tough decision, but we think as a family that it's the right decision," he said.

After a total of nearly six years serving as a city council member and mayor, O'Hare claims job retention, economic development and lower crime as his legacy. But, mostly he's known for his effort to bar illegal immigrants from apartments.

It's cost taxpayers $3.7 million so far, and the fight goes on in a federal appeals court.

“Well, I don't think you have to justify it," O'Hare said of his decision. "I agreed to serve three years. I'm leaving, but they will continue moving forward because the council that is there wants to see it happen, and the reason they do is they think it's the right thing to do.â€