An emotional Brewton Mayor Ted Jennings announced Tuesday afternoon that, after six terms in office, he will not seek re-election in 2012.

“It has been a great honor for me to serve as mayor of this city,” he said. “This has been the high point of my life.”

Jennings told council members at their meeting Tuesday about his decision.

“I still have a year and a half left in my term,” he said. “I expect to be the mayor until I’m not the mayor, and we all have a job to do.”

Jennings, who had to pause to choke back tears several times during his announcement, thanked council members for their service.

“We haven’t always agreed on everything, but we’ve worked together,” said Jennings, who has served since 1988. “I appreciate all of the work the council has done.”

Jennings also thanked department heads and city employees for their service.

“Y’all are the best,” he said. “And I want to thank the citizens who have elected me six times. I appreciate all of the support I’ve gotten.”

Jennings said he has been considering the decision for several months.