Rep. Evans will not seek re-election

After more than a decade of serving the Fifth District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Republican state Rep. John Evans today announced that he will not seek another term representing the people of Erie and Crawford counties. He will serve out the remainder of the current term, which will end on Nov. 30, 2012. Evans’ Fifth District includes western Crawford County. Evans issued the following statement: “For the past 11 years, I have considered it a tremendous honor and privilege to serve the people of the 5th District in Erie and Crawford counties. I thank all of the people who have placed their confidence in me to speak on their behalf and to ensure that our district is well represented in Harrisburg. “On a personal note, I’d like to thank my staff at my Edinboro, Linesville, Girard and Harrisburg offices for their outstanding work for my constituents. Over the years, we have helped thousands of residents cut through the red tape of state bureaucracy and get the assistance they need. Of all the things I will miss the most will be the people I have met and spoken with. “At this point in time, I’m looking forward to new and exciting challenges and opportunities, and I believe now is the right time for me to step aside and allow someone else the opportunity to serve the region. When I first entered state government in 2001, I never intended to be in the House for any long length of service. But over the past 11 years, I have greatly enjoyed working on numerous issues important to the people of Erie and Crawford counties, and I continue to be honored to be their voice through the remainder of this term.”