July 30, 2008 - ChangeDecatur and its supporters representing over 20 organizations, announce their intent to endorse and support five candidates for the April 2009, City of Decatur municipal elections. ChangeDecatur encourages anyone interested in promoting local government reform to consider running for elected office and to seek an endorsement from ChangeDecatur.
Brian Burcham of ChangeDecatur stated: ”We believe that the best interests of Decatur will be served by electing representatives that are committed to broader representation of all citizens and to accountable city leadership. We welcome the chance to expand our coalition to include those seeking public office.”
In the April 2009 municipal election, voters will elect five officials to city government:
- a mayor to the remaining two-year term of Paul Osborne,
- a city council member to the remaining two-year term of Michael Carrigan who is serving as interim mayor, and,
- three members of the city council for four-year terms.
ChangeDecatur encourages men and women from all backgrounds, races, economic means and parts of the city to participate in public service. In line with the goal to broaden council representation within city government, the criteria for endorsing candidates will consider diverse factors along with commitment to local government reform. The ability to devote the time to run a successful campaign will be important. The five candidates endorsed by ChangeDecatur will receive assistance with circulating nominating petitions, fundraising, door-to-door campaigning and understanding of city government issues.
A questionnaire will be used to evaluate the strongest candidates for a ChangeDecatur endorsement. The questionnaire should be completed by interested candidates on or before August 31, 2008. Representatives of the ChangeDecatur coalition will review questionnaires and conduct interviews to choose the five best candidates for endorsement.
ChangeDecatur is a coalition of groups and individuals that believe it is time for change in local city government. In addition, this coalition believes that the entire community needs to be involved in bold initiatives to enhance opportunity and the quality of life in Decatur. ChangeDecatur government reform goals include:
i.) broadened city council representation for all Decatur citizens,
ii.) a stronger and more accountable elected mayor, and,
iii.) greater transparency in government activities.
Anyone who would like to help further these goals through election to city government should contact: John Phillips (217) 454-5652, Brian Burcham (217) 233-3018, Keith Anderson or Steve Daniels (217) 233-3415. For additional information go to our website www.changedecatur.com, or send an email to ChangeDecatur@gmail.com.
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