May 9—Former Anchorage Assembly member and chair Suzanne LaFrance on Monday filed to run for mayor in next year's city election.

LaFrance, who worked in telecommunications, represented South Anchorage on the Assembly starting in 2017, and became chair in June 2021. She opted not to run for a third term but said in January she would "continue to be involved with our community."

LaFrance became chair of the Assembly during a time of deep tension over the city's approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, which erupted into chaos during a series of meetings in fall 2021 over whether Anchorage should implement a mask requirement, as conservative Mayor Dave Bronson and his allies fought the measure.

LaFrance led an Assembly majority often at odds with Bronson, frequently pushing back against his agenda with vetoes and other measures, and also pursuing investigations into his administration amid allegations of misconduct and mismanagement. LaFrance also took a leading role as the Assembly and the Bronson administration grappled with other major issues facing the city, including an ongoing homelessness and housing crisis.

Bronson has also filed to run for mayor in 2024.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.