Kirk Caldwell, city managing director, will run for mayor either next year or in 2012.

Caldwell is an attorney and former state representative.

The 57-year old Demo-crat said he will run for mayor next year if Mayor Mufi Hannemann leaves the city two years early by running for governor. If Hannemann remains as mayor, Caldwell said he will run when Hannemann's term expires in 2012.

“;The issues are balancing the budget and deciding how to deliver services, keep the parks in good order, the streets paved and make sure that the city is properly managed,”; Caldwell said.

Caldwell served six years representing Manoa in the state House. He was former chairman of the Labor Committee.

Last year, Caldwell sought a seat on the City Council but filed his election papers too late, and his candidacy was ruled ineligible. His Manoa state House seat was left vacant, and the Democrats were forced to name a candidate, Isaac Choy, who then successfully won the election.

To kick off his campaign, Caldwell is holding a $50-a-ticket fundraiser Sept. 28 at the Japanese Cultural Center.