Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling announced Monday that he will not seek reelection in November after 12 years leading the city in which he was born and raised.

“It's been a wonderful ride, a wonderful journey,” Rilling said, tearing up.

With his wife by his side, Rilling sat down with News 12 just a couple hours after going public with his decision, which he said came down to wanting to spend more time with his family.

“I love doing what I do, but at some point, it's time to consider moving on,” Rilling explained.

“It's bittersweet. There comes a time when enough is sort of enough,” added Lucia Rilling, the mayor’s wife of 10 years. “We look forward to doing things together more often and getting to know one another even more so than before.”

Rilling was first elected in November 2013 after spending 41 years with the police department, 17 of them as police chief. His announcement means the end of an over 50-year career serving the city in different capacities. Rilling told News 12 while there are no more campaigns in his future, he’d be open to other positions in the city, serving on a board or commission.

“I still have a lot of energy. I still have a commitment to this city to try to do whatever I can to help out,” Rilling explained.

Rilling told News 12 he’s most proud of navigating the city through the pandemic. He also touted the work his administration did prioritizing school construction projects. That included renovations at Ponus Ridge School and Jefferson Elementary Schools as well as building a brand-new Cranberry Elementary School—the city’s first new school in 50 years. The city is also in the process of building a new Norwalk High School and a new school in South Norwalk.

“I'm very blessed. The city has been very, very good to me, and I owe the city a tremendous debt of gratitude,” Rilling told News 12.

Rilling will finish out this term and leave when the next mayor is sworn in Jan. 1. He said he’s looking forward to traveling with his wife, boating on Long Island Sound and playing golf.

Gov. Ned Lamont posted about Rilling’s announcement on X, writing, “Mayor Rilling has dedicated himself to serving the public, including through 41 years as a police officer. His leadership in public safety and as mayor has truly made a positive impact on Norwalk. He's a good friend, and I wish him and his family the best in their next endeavors.”

Attorney General William Tong also released a statement, saying, “Harry Rilling has been a great Mayor and an even better friend. I would not be Attorney General without his guidance and support over all these years. He has shown that it's possible to be a strong law enforcement leader and to work hard to protect public safety while at the same time empowering people in his city, promoting equity and lifting up all communities. He has turned Norwalk into a key economic engine in our state that leads the way in growth and a shared prosperity. I wish him and Lucia the very best as they embark on the next chapter in their lives, but I know I'll continue to work with him in the years ahead."

Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff also shared his sentiments, writing, ““After over fifty years of service to Norwalk, including more than a decade as mayor, Harry Rilling has certainly earned his retirement. But that doesn’t make it any easier to see him go. After an entire career in law enforcement, Harry went on to become a steadfast leader who prioritized investing in Norwalk’s future, whether through supporting education, revitalizing the downtown area, or addressing climate change. It’s hard to imagine a more dedicated leader or a better partner. I wish him the best in this well-deserved retirement.”