Candidate Q&A: Jerry Purcell

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

Reasons: A. Following my thirty-nine year career as a first responder, as well as a lifelong community volunteer, I believe that I am in a position to bring my many experiences to the Richmond City Council.

B. I want to support and lead the revitalization of our neighborhoods, as well as our small business districts.

Priorities: A. A Master plan is sadly lacking for our city. Creating a master plan, with input from all of our community members will ensure continuity as our city moves forward year to year, as well as from administration to administration.

B. Provide the infrastructure needed in our small business districts to promote private investment and increase long term vitality.

C. Rebuild the confidence of our citizens in city government through holding town hall style meetings, as well as emboldening our fellow citizens to share their ideas for Richmond’s future with city representatives.

Skills: A. My understanding of the city budget through my experiences as Richmond City Fire Chief.

B. My ability to create and direct projects to completion.

Working well: The present city council members do work well together and across party lines.

Needs changing: The lack of reaching out to our citizens for input on issues which affect them is a serious breach of trust. For instance, before a large project is initiated in a neighborhood, such as new sidewalks or street closures, how difficult would it be to knock on doors or put out fliers to inform folks about these inconveniences? Upon completion, the city should return to that neighborhood’s residents for an after action report on the project.

… It is not rocket science to run a city efficiently, but it does take the heart of a servant willing to listen and who has the fortitude to see projects to their completion.

Jerry Purcell

Accepting results: Yes

Involving residents: There is no better way than to speak directly to our citizens. Is it not a courtesy to involve those most affected by decisions? The mayor, city council members and department heads should acquaint themselves with the leaders of our business districts and our neighborhoods. In our era of emails and texts, nothing is a substitute for a “sit down across the table” to discuss concerns and mutual goals.

$5 million: One must first realize that this is a one-time money deal. The grant must be used in a way that has the greatest impact on present need while taking into account ongoing support costs which must be incorporated into the city budget. In the alternative, the project must be self-supporting once completed. I would spend this grant on infrastructure in our small business districts in order to better utilize existing structures and promote private investment.

Others: Ringing in my ears as I have prepared to make this run for city council at large are the many voices of old friends, new friends, even folks who probably will not even vote, but still have opinions. These voices have blended together to express the same concerns over and over again. “We want to be heard. We want to be consulted. We want input. Please finish the projects you begin in a timely fashion.” It is not rocket science to run a city efficiently, but it does take the heart of a servant willing to listen and who has the fortitude to see projects to their completion.