Former FBI special agent-in-charge Bernie Tolbert appears to be ready to announce a run for mayor of Buffalo. Tolbert says he will be making an announcement Saturday morning. But as WBFO'S Eileen Buckley reports, Tolbert would not confirm that he will be launching a campaign.
"I'm a long-time Buffaloian, born and raised here, and a lot of people know me from my long history in Buffalo and things I have done. They know that I have always worked hard to better our community," said Tolbert
Tolbert is remaining tight-lipped about this weekend's annoucement. He did not want to provide any details..but said it would be about his future plans.
"Assess how I can be involved in making a contribution to my community," said Tolbert. "I will be making an announcement Saturday, I don't want to go into anymore detail regarding that announcement other than to say it will be an announcement that talks about my future," said Tolbert.
The announcement will be held at the Bennett W. Smith Family Life Center on Michigan Avenue at 11'o'clock Saturday morning -- the same site Mayor Byron Brown launched his reelection campaign in March. For months -- Tolbert's name has been tossed in as a possible contender.. Tolbert would challenge incumbent Brown in the Democratic primary this September. Brown is seeking a third term in office. Republican Sergio Rodriguez also announced his campaign earlier this year.
Tolbert says he has been receiving "positive" reaction as he considers a run.
"I've gotten good feedback from people as I've talked to them about our city and the issues that face our city. It's been gratifying to know that so many still people, after being gone for so many years, that people still remember me, and I get a lot of feedback from people who talk, in a very positive way, who recall what I have done or what I have meant to the city," Tolbert.
WBFO News asked Tolbert what issues he feels are important to the city, but he is not ready to reveal his thoughts right now.
"There are a number, I don't want to get into that at this point, I will talk about more issues at some other time. At this point, I would rather not go there," said Tolbert.
And a footnote -- Tolbert will also be celebrating a birthday this weekend. Tolbert says his age is "no secret" -- and has been "well-documented" -- he will be turning 65.