George Stewart, affectionately known during his mayoral reign from 1994 to 1998 as “King George,” confirmed reports Tuesday that he is interested in seeking Dave Knecht's citywide position on the council this fall.

“I've announced early because I want people to know I'm serious,” Stewart said. “I've always had a philosophy that it's not where you serve, it's how you serve.”

Residents are familiar with Stewart and say he could be a great fit because he favors preservation of the older neighborhoods while also having a track record of success with the business district.

“He'll find it a different experience if he's elected,” said Councilman Paul Warner, whose seat is also up this fall. “He'll be one in seven instead of running the city. He'll have to adjust his roles.”

Stewart has ties to the current city administration through Mayor Lewis Billings, who served as his chief administrative officer during his one term.

This past year, the former mayor returned from presiding over an LDS mission in Argentina and has been meeting with current council members to get up to speed on city issues.

Stewart said the council is a bit dysfunctional, and there is no place for negativism and contention in a city such as Provo.

“The reason why I'm interested is to bring some peace and civility back to the council,” he said. “Right now it's not there.”

Councilwoman Midge Johnson, who is not up for re-election, said having Stewart on the council would create a “different mix,” but that she is willing to work with whoever is elected.

Neither Johnson nor continuing Councilman Steve Turley worked with Stewart when he was mayor.

“Provo has always been a place with strong people and strong opinions,” Turley said. “I have no doubt there are going to be surprises and more surprises.”

Besides Knecht and Warner, Cindy Richards and Mayor Billings are also up for re-election this fall. While Warner is still undecided about his political future, Richards and Billings are planning to run again.

Knecht said his decision not to seek his seat once more came after consulting with his family.

“After 13 years of being in various positions, they would like to have a full-time dad,” Knecht said. “They don't see a lot of me. The last four years I haven't been on a family vacation because my vacation hours have been used for city meetings.”

thollingshead@sltrib.com