"Today a series of articles in The Spokesman-Review leveled allegations against me about my private life. I am a law-abiding citizen, and I believe my public record of service stands on its own merit.

"Allegations about my private life were twofold. I categorically deny any allegations about incidents that supposedly occurred 24 years ago as alleged by two convicted felons and about which I have no knowledge. The newspaper also reported that I have visited a gay chat line on the Internet and had relations with adult men. I don't deny that.

"The business of the city remains my top concern. We have made significant progress as a community over the last year and a half, and I am confident that we will continue to be successful in our initiatives.

"I have 1,150 days left in my term of office and each and every one of those days will be dedicated to serving the city and making sure we prosper in the city of Spokane. Thank you for your time."