Rep. Marcus Riccelli, D-Spokane, said Saturday he would not challenge Spokane Mayor David Condon in this year's city elections.

Riccelli, who was elected to the legislature in 2012 and re-elected last year, was most recently the prime sponsor of a House bill that gave Washington State University the authority, although not the money, to start a new medical school in Spokane. Ahead of the Thomas S. Foley Legacy Dinner on Saturday, where a large number of Democrats would gather, Riccelli said he considered running for mayor but ultimately decided he preferred his place in the state legislature.

"I am passionate about making a real difference for all of Spokane, and am proud of my continued work in our state legislature," he wrote in a note to supporters. "I will not be running for Mayor in 2015. I am truly honored to serve as your State Representative."

Read Riccelli's full statement below.

I am so grateful to all of the people who have reached out to me regarding the opportunity to serve as Mayor of Spokane.  Your passion and desire to seek new and innovative solutions to the problems our community faces is inspiring. While working for the families and businesses of my hometown has always been a driving force in my public service, I believe I am more effective at this time by fulfilling my commitment as your state representative in Olympia.

Together we’ve accomplished a lot in the past two years, and every day I'm reminded why I came to the state capitol in the first place.  We are making strides towards a healthier next generation, and we are closer to a new medical school and significant transportation investments. I remain steadfast in my commitment to enhance education, grow our economy and protect our quality of life. Everyone in Spokane and our state deserves a fair shot at the opportunity to have the life they want, not just the wealthy few. I am passionate about making a real difference for all of Spokane, and am proud of my continued work in our state legislature.

I will not be running for Mayor in 2015. I am truly honored to serve as your State Representative.