Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann formally launched his re-election campaign yesterday, signing up to run and pledging to improve core city services.

After filing as a candidate, Hannemann thanked his family, friends, campaign staff and city workers who attended the "chill with Mufi" event, which featured ice cream and cookies.

"No one will work harder, no one will work smarter and no one will work with more aloha than the individual standing before you," Hannemann told the more than three dozen supporters who were waving campaign signs and chanting "four more years."

"Four years ago, in 2004, we ran on a resume and a list of promises. This time around, in 2008, we are running on a record of accomplishments, and we are looking forward to taking that record to the voters of Honolulu."

He said he will continue to focus on improving core city services, and target resources toward city infrastructure, public safety and transportation.

Eleven people have taken out papers to run against Hannemann, and four — James R. Brewer, Donavon D. Kambel, Daniel H. Cunningham, and George Nitta — have filed. None has significant campaign resources, while Hannemann has raised more than $2.5 million.

University of Hawai'i engineering professor Panos D. Prevedouros, who is a vocal anti-rail critic, is expected to file nominating papers July 21, a day before the July 22 deadline.

In the 2004 mayoral election, Hannemann spent roughly $2 million, while his opponent, Duke Bainum, spent $4 million.

"Against tremendous odds we won that race, and four years later we're asking the people of Honolulu to rehire me as mayor," Hannemann said yesterday.

He declined to comment on whether he would seek another office in 2010 and said he's focused on re-election.

"My feeling is that I'm running for mayor. Yes, it's a four-year term but I've learned in this crazy world that in government and politics, never say never."