While public safety might not be on top of the minds of residents when voting for Jefferson City's next mayor, it is definitely on the minds of all three candidates.
As evidenced from both conversations with and public statements made by Eric Struemph, George Hartsfield and Leonard Steinman, issues like how best to work with the fire and police departments are at the top of the priority list. But when it comes to how best to address those needs, the candidates begin to diverge.
Struemph, who spent 10 years as a firefighter with the Cole County Fire Department, said he has a good understanding of what the Jefferson City fire and police departments need. First on the list for the Struemph administration would be training.