By Phil Marcelo
Journal State House Bureau

A third potential primary candidate for state treasurer has backed out.

Providence City Councilor Michael A. Solomon, a Democrat who represents Elmhurst and Mount Pleasant, will seek a second term on the council rather than run for state general treasurer.

Solomon, 52, says he briefly weighed the treasurer's office, which is charged with disbursing state funds, issuing general obligation notes and bonds, managing the investment of state funds, and overseeing the state retirement system. But after conferring with his family, he decided "the timing wasn't right." He made the announcement to supporters at a fundraiser earlier this month.

Solomon would have been an intriguing entry into the treasurer's race; his father, Anthony J. Solomon, held the seat for nearly 12 years. "I'm just enjoying the city right now," said Michael Solomon, who owns Wes' Rib House and Cozy Caterers in Providence.