Mike Harris, a Pleasanton resident and software engineer, said Wednesday that he is suspending his campaign for the Pleasanton City Council for "personal reasons."

Harris, who has never held a political office, was also the least known in Pleasanton political circles.

Still, his cancellation of his candidacy comes too late to have his name removed from the ballot. Others campaigning for election to the City Council are Karla Brown, Erlene DeMarcus and Jerry Pentin.

In a "Greetings all" message to the Pleasanton Weekly and other candidates in the Nov. 6 municipal election, Harris said:

"Unfortunately, I decided that it is best if I suspend my campaigning for City Council Member. Due to upcoming personal reasons, I will not be able to serve as a City Council Member for Pleasanton. I will still be on the ballot, since that cannot be changed now. If I am elected, I will be required to resign."

"Good luck to everyone," he added. "I enjoyed participating in the forum sessions with you."

He added: "FYI, I already terminated the cell phone that I acquired for the purpose of the campaign, 925-998-2085. If you need to reach me, email is best. My existing cell phone is not currently working, but will be in a day or two. (It's a company phone which I'm encouraged to use as much as possible and was recently upgraded, but has not been fully activated yet.) That phone number is 925-858-0351."