The Fresno Police Officers Association will announce endorsements for a variety of political offices later this week, but it's the nod that won't be given that really stands out.

The union, the largest public safety association in the county, has decided not to back a candidate for mayor - at least not yet.

Of the 11 candidates for mayor, there are three members of the Fresno City Council, a former Council Member, a Fresno police detective and several business people. Jacky Parks, president of the FPOA, said the group decided to stay neutral for several reasons.

"We endorsed each of the sitting council members when they ran for office," Parks said. "Also, we think the other candidates are strong enough that we want to take the time to get to know them before making a choice."

Parks said the group has chosen candidates for both the Fresno City Council and the Fresno County Board of Supervisors, but he wasn't ready to release those names until each candidate has been notified, not just those who won the endorsements.

The FPOA did endorse Henry R. Perea for Fresno County Supervisor several weeks ago, but that race is uncontested.

--Denny Boyles