ROME -- A Rome man announced his candidacy for mayor Wednesday, before a packed house of supporters.

David Halpin (D) says he decided to run for mayor after speaking with hundreds of people in the city who are not happy with the current administration and agree that the city needs new management.

Halpin’s campaign slogan is “a change we need”. If elected Halpin says he hopes to tackle issues such as the need for improved infrastructure, and high property taxes that are driving families out of the city.

"I feel that my background as far as in management and my background as far as in business,” Halpin said. “I can be an effective leader within this city to make sure that everything is done and people are well informed and communicated to and run things on time. This is a big step for me but I’m ready to take it on I really am I have a lot of supporters who feel comfortable with me and I have the background and I have their support."

Halpin says if he is elected, he wants to have a direct line of communication between him and the community. Rome residents will have the chance to decide who they want to be elected for mayor this November.

Rome’s current mayor, Jacqueline Izzo, is unavailable to comment at this time.