JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio

After serving 18 years on and off as a member of Steubenville City Council, Rick Perkins said he will not run for re-election.

Perkins said he remembers the first time he was elected in 1973.

Since then, he said, he has seen all forms of government lead the town and while the city is not as vibrant as it once was, he knows it will continue to thrive.

He discussed what he said he will miss the most about council.

"Helping the people. A lot of people don't think you are really trying to help them, but you are. I'm going to miss the constituents calling and saying 'I have a problem here.' It gives you a great feeling when you have accomplished something for your constituents."

Perkins will hold office until Dec. 31.

He said it is time for younger people with younger minds and ideas to take on the role.