A familiar face in the Mohawk Valley is hoping people will elect him again this fall.

Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri announced his campaign for a third term with his 12 grandchildren by his side, Monday afternoon.

Palmieri focusing on children saying he wants to make Utica a place where kids grow up and stay.

The Mayor talked about his eight year journey in Utica and his vision for the future.

"We're talking about the harbor, we're talking about the NEXUS center, we're talking about grocery stores that have never been here before,” said Palmieri. “Whether it be Stewarts, Price Rite, Aldi; these are all things that have been administered through our administration."

Palmieri is able to run for a third term after city lawmakers voted to extend term limits.

He will face a primary challenge, from city councilman Joe Marino.