Candidate Q&A: Jane Bumbalough

Jane Bumbalough is running for Common Council At-Large in Richmond, Indiana as a Republican candidate in the 2023 general election.

2023 Election Guide

The Western Wayne News asked candidates in contested races for the Nov. 7 general election the same nine questions.

1. What are two specific reasons you decided to run for this office? (100 words or less.)
2. If elected/re-elected, what are your top three priorities for your time in office? (150 words or less.)
3. What are two specific skills you would bring to the office to benefit constituents, if elected/re-elected? (100 words or less.)
4. What’s one aspect of the government body you’re seeking to join or lead that you think is working well and should continue? (100 words or less.)
5. What’s one aspect of the body you’re seeking to join or lead that you think needs to change, and what specific action(s) would you pursue to change it? (100 words or less.)
6. Will you accept the results of the election process even if you are not elected/re-elected? (50 words or less.)
7. Beyond encouraging attendance at public meetings, how do you plan to involve residents in decision making processes that the office you seek is a part of? (100 words or less.)
8. If you received a $5 million grant to improve our community any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? (150 words or less.)
9. Any other comments you’d like to share about your candidacy? (150 words or less.)

Candidates were given a month’s time to respond with a firm deadline. We share their answers, unedited from their original form, here and in our print editions.

For full election coverage, visit the Western Wayne News 2023 Election Guide.

Reasons: I am running for re-election because I was asked and encouraged to continue to serve.

I genuinely care for and want to continue to serve the people of our community with time, wisdom, commitment and advocacy.

Priorities: One top priority is for our first responders. They provide a priceless sacrifice in their service to us and they need the continued resources necessary to do their job effectively. As a deputy’s wife, I know first hand their need for our support and have heartfelt appreciation for them!

Another priority is for consideration when planning a city project. We need to make sure that it does not put a financial strain and burden on future generations. Citizens need to be heard and considered when making impacting decisions. We need to maximize the potential use of resources while keeping projects sustainable. The citizens need us to listen with consideration to their ideas, needs and concerns and advocate for them.

A third priority is continued strong considerate support for our large and small local businesses. Their presence is vital for our sustainability and growth as a community.

Skills: As a wife of 40 years, mother of ten grown children of which three being United State Military Veterans, grandmother of 16, and a Senior Home Care Provider for over 39 years, I continue to grow in empathy, compassion and understanding for others from all walks of life.

I love listening to members of the community and value their perspective. I seek counsel and wisdom in decision making and take into consideration how my actions affect others.

Working well: I am currently serving as the city liaison for the Richmond Housing Authority. The Executive Director/President-CEO, staff and Board of Commissioners collectively bring diverse perspectives that aid in their ongoing growth in service and community partnership.

If re-elected I would like to continue to serve in this role as liaison for our city.

Needs changing: Enforcement of laws and codes. The issue of blight in our community continues to cause a distraction from the many historical and geographical assets our community has to offer.

I would like to be a part of a team that aids in whatever support is needed to be able to combat this issue in a timely manner.

Accepting results: Yes

Involving residents: One of the ways that I involve residents’ participation is by making myself available to them and listening with consideration to their comments and concerns. I encourage them to not just attend, but be willing to speak at public meetings in a way that is informative and influencing.

$5 million: If we received a $5 million grant to improve our community, we would first need to know the grant parameters. All grants have them. Then seek wisdom and counsel to determine the pressing need within the community and act accordingly.

Other: I can’t thank you enough for allowing me to serve and advocate for you these past four years, and look forward to continuing in this manner if re-elected.