COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) - A retired Columbus police officer and a current city councilor plans to toss his hat in the ring for mayor of the city.

News Leader 9 spoke to Byron Hickey today. He said he will file his intent and make the official announcement on Friday.

Hickey will run against five other candidates, including former City Manager Isaiah Hugley, whom he along with other councilors, voted to fire. The other candidates are Steven Kelly, Kia Legette, Mark LaJoye, and Joanne Cogle.

Hickey was appointed to the council after the death of former District 1 Councilman Jerry ‘Pops’ Barnes. He is credited for initiating a truce between rival gang members during his 26 years on the force.

He also settled a discrimination lawsuit he filed against the city of Columbus in 2007, claiming the

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