Dawsonville's acting mayor has announced his intention to seek the position in the July 31 special election.

"I am really looking forward to running for the office of mayor because I believe with my experience and my knowledge of government that I would do a good job," James Grogan said.

Grogan, 69, was elected to the council in November 2009. During his term, he has served as mayor pro-tem and currently as acting mayor following the recent death of Joe Lane Cox.

A Dawson County High School graduate, Grogan went on to study business at Reinhardt University and the University of Georgia. He later worked in the wholesale hardware industry for 25 years.

"I have experience in sales, warehousing and management," he said. "I have the ability to work with large groups of people. I can manage budgets of $5 million or more."

Grogan, who has also completed 42 hours of training with the Georgia Municipal Association, feels prepared to serve as mayor.

"One of my strong points in my previous career is being able to turn chaotic situations into orderly things," he said. "I build to plan my work and then I work my plan."

Grogan said he looks at the role of mayor as a "servant-leader" position and would be happy to serve the community. He has fond memories of growing up in the city and wants to "embrace traditions and history."

Grogan is married to wife Carol and has three sons and one daughter.

He wants to protect the city's traditions for his family and future generations.

"Most of us who were raised in this small town want to see tradition continue," he said. "Those that move in, move here for the same reasons - because they want that for their children.

"I am not seeking the mayoral position because of any personal or future political ambitions. The main reason is because I love the city and I love the people."

Qualifying for the election will be held from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. May 23-25 at the Dawson County Board of Elections office, 96 Academy Ave., Dawsonville.