In just a few days, Jamestown Democratic Mayor Sam Teresi will end his run as that city's long-time leader.

"It's not about how well things work when you're there, it's about how things work when you're no longer there."  

Teresi has been there as mayor of Jamestown since January 2000.

Prior to his election in November 1999, he has served in a number of roles inside city hall, including as a high school intern for the Office of Development, grant writer after returning from college and, starting in 1988, director of the Department of Planning and Development for 11 years.

"This is home to me and, in fact, I spend way much more time in this building than I do at my house."

He vividly recalls being sworn into office.

"It was a little bit surreal,” Teresi said. “My dad was still alive at the time, so it was extra special for me because he was beginning a new term in the Chautauqua County Legislature. We celebrated victories together that night in November."

Upon taking office in 2000, Teresi said his toughest test was to first face the city's financial challenges head on and work to right the ship. 

"Suddenly the campaign really was over. The transition really was over and it was time for the rubber to meet the road," he said.

Following his first term in office, Teresi was re-elected four more times.

"The priorities always remained the same. Engaging the community in the process. Making sure that we were understanding where the community was. Getting the private sector involved. Making sure that we were putting together and implementing responsible budgets."

Though Teresi said he never anticipated being in office this long, he also said he had no ambition to use the post as a stepping stone to seek higher office.

Earlier this year, during a city council work session, with his family by his side, Teresi announced he would not seek a sixth term in office.

"I wish I could explain it to you better, it just felt right,” he said. “It was the time to move on to do something else."

Teresi said he's confident his support base remains strong, and that his long bout with type 1 diabetes did not play a factor in his decision.

In a three-way race for the mayoral seat, voters elected Eddie Sundquist, a 30-year-old Democrat.

Teresi leaves at a time when the Pearl City is shining once again, and showing signs of economic growth with the National Comedy Center as the headliner.

How does he feel about leaving?

"Better now when things are on a positive trajectory, than there is when there was still significant work to be done,” he said. “I feel that I can move forward with a clear mind."

Teresi discusses his greatest accomplishments in office and his legacy in the second part of the interview, airing December 27.