Former Councilwoman Edith Vogel has filed to seek election to Jefferson City's open 2nd Ward seat.
Vogel, a lifelong Jefferson City resident, was previously on the council representing Ward 2 from 1999-2007, serving a full eight-year term.
She is a retired licensed practical nurse who previously worked for Jefferson City Correctional Center. Currently, she works for Jefferson City Coca-Cola Bottling Company.
A recent change in city policy allows a former council member who has already served the maximum eight years to run for re-election after being off the council for a full two years.
"I enjoyed my time on the council, and I felt like I represented the citizens of the 2nd Ward to the best of my ability, and I just thought I had the time and the desire to serve the citizens again," she said.
Vogel said she wants to serve as a voice for the citizens of Jefferson City.
Her interest in public office was rekindled by an issue that came before the council in 2020 - the controversial removal of a Civil War marker from Moreau Drive. Vogel was a publicly outspoken opponent of removing the marker.
"That stirred up a fire in me to run once again, to let the citizens know that I'm more willing to maybe listen before something just happens without their knowledge of what is going on," Vogel said.
Vogel also has an understanding of the council's process from her previous terms. She said she would prefer the council pass fewer ordinances and maintain current city laws.
Issues important to Vogel include public safety and infrastructure.
The seat is currently held by Councilwoman Laura Ward, who is running for re-election for her last two-year term.
Jefferson City voters will also choose four other council members, one from each of the five city wards.
As of Friday, Ward 1 Councilman David Kemna is running unopposed for his seat.
Residents Mary Schantz and Scott Spencer are running for the 3rd Ward.
Derrick Spicer and Leonard Steinman II are running for the 4th Ward.
Ward 5 Councilman Mark Schreiber is running for re-election against Alicia Edwards.
The municipal judge and city prosecutor positions are also up for election. Current city prosecutor Gaylin Carver is unopposed. Scott Evans and Angela Silvey are running for municipal judge.
Filing for the city positions closes Jan. 19. The election will be April 6.