If you’re reading this, there’s probably a good chance you care about our city — and even have your own opinions on how it should operate — what the problems are, the possible solutions and what our priorities should be.
The people who read this page are typically those who have a higher awareness and understanding of the issues that face our city. You might volunteer for charitable causes. Maybe you’ve written letters to the editor, or possibly served on city boards.
But have you considered the next logical step in serving your community?
Do you have ideas to make our city operate better? Do we have the right balance of taxes and services? Are our public safety agencies such as the police and fire departments properly funded? Do they operate efficiently and effectively? Are there ways to improve them? What about the perennial problem of stormwater in our community?
These are but a few of the issues that members of the City Council face. If you feel like you could help to make positive contributions in these areas, and others, now is your chance.
Filing began Tuesday for the April 2 municipal elections. Five council seats (one in each ward) are up for grabs, as are positions for mayor, city prosecutor and municipal judge.
Filing for city offices will close at 5 p.m. Jan. 15.
Before a candidate files for a city office, he or she must have three endorsements from residents of the area the candidate wants to represent. He or she also must present a Missouri Department of Revenue form 5120 to the city. Candidates are required to sign the form before a notary and file it with the DOR.
Candidate endorsement forms, links to DOR Form 5120 and other pertinent information are found on the city clerk’s “Elections” page at jeffersoncitymo.gov/government/city_elections.php.
Serving in municipal offices can be low-paying, thankless jobs. But, for true public servants, knowing that you are working for the betterment of your community should be reward enough. If you believe you could contribute, consider running for the council or another municipal office.
News Tribune