Erie County Comptroller Mark Poloncarz will not be Erie County’s next top officer, despite pressure from high-level public and private sector officials.

Poloncarz, who beat Republican John Canavan for the comptroller seat in November 2005, seemed to fit the “fresh face” bill so coveted in this year’s race. The Republicans found one in area businessman and entrepreneur Chris Collins.

“I have decided not to enter the race for county executive, and will remain county comptroller,” Poloncarz said in a statement. “Upon taking office 16 months ago, my goal was to restore integrity and responsible leadership to Erie County Hall and fiscal discipline to Erie County. While we still have much work to do, I believe that we have made significant strides toward that goal.”