Name: John J. Jester
Age: 54
Party: Republican
Office sought: Greenfield-City Council At-Large
Occupation: Chief of police, Community Health Network
Political experience: Two-term Hancock County coroner, eight years Greenfield police chief, Greenfield City Council
Family: Three children, four grandchildren
Why are you running for office?
This is my way of giving back to a community that has given so much to me. I feel having worked for the police department for so long and working with the council during my time as chief, I feel I have a great understanding of what our citizens want and need, as well as a better than average understanding of the work a council member must do.
How are you qualified?
Having served as a coroner, and chief of police, I know how to listen to the citizens. I have been on both sides of the budget process, having now completed my first term on the council. I know how to use the taxpayers’ money wisely. I have an in-depth knowledge of the ordinance process of the city. I have a professional working relationship with the department heads who keep our city running.
What are the most pressing issues facing Greenfield?
Growth. We need to establish a sustainable plan to keep up with the growth of our city. As growth comes we must maintain proper public safety coverage for our citizens, as well as our city infrastructure, all in a time where money is tight. We will have to do more with less. We are in the process of catching up with some of our needs, such as our wastewater treatment plant. We must look forward and prepare the proper plans moving forward to keep us from playing catch-up. This could save money in the long run.
Do you support increasing the general tax rate for the Greenfield Fire Protection Territory? Why or why not?
I am not a fan on increasing taxes, however I understand that sometimes there is a true need and taxes must be raised at times. I feel that with our increased population, our fire territory has been stretched thin. Due to the increased run load, many times our citizens must wait on an ambulance. I feel we need a third ambulance but that requires staff. I feel this is something that needs to be studied, in order to come up with the most fiscally responsible plan possible. All of this said, a tax increase may be the only way to provide proper coverage to our citizens.
