I also want to make sure that, as these dollars flow to communities, that they’re ones that represent the values that Barack Obama ran on, and not just things that we want to get done really quickly.

Video after the jump.

Rybak will likely announce his decision about his future plans in time for Christmas, but there’s one factor that could change all that. There’s been light speculation that Obama may tap Rybak for a spot in his new administration, as Rybak was an early friend and supporter.

So who’s interested in replacing him if Rybak moves on? Minneapolis City Council member Ralph Remington, for one. “R.T. has created a healthy and strong foundation for the city to move forward beyond his tenure, whenever that may be,” Remington told the Southwest Journal on Wednesday. “And I’m sure if he stays on he’ll continue further in that vein and if he decides to leave I would welcome the opportunity to pick up the mantle and move that forward.”

But at least one candidate isn’t waiting to see whether Rybak moves out. DFLer Bob Miller, director of Minneapolis’ Neighborhood Revitalization Program, announced his mayoral candidacay in early November. Miller has been critical of the city’s direction with NRP by centralizing the program and taking some power away from neighborhoods.

Another perennial candidate is throwing his hat in the ring too. Dick Franson, who has made 23 unsuccessful bids for office (and one successful city council bid in 1963) will run for mayor in 2009, the Star Tribune reports.

Rumored entrants into the 2009 race: Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, and City Council members Barb Johnson and Gary Schiff.

City Hall image via La Suprema.