In the Grand Junction city election Nov. 3, incumbent mayor Gerald Herrick is being challenged by Dave Kersey.
Both candidates were given an opportunity to respond to questions about their candidacy and their plans for Grand Junction. Only Kersey responded. His answers are provided here:
What qualifications or experience would you bring to the position of mayor of Grand Junction?
Dave Kersey: I have personally served on the Grand Junction city council and have a good knowledge of state and city laws and know how to implement and enforce them.
What should be the city’s top three priorities and why?
Kersey: 1) Clean up the city including properties and junk vehicles; 2) Blacktop Main Street – we are spending a lot of money on Main Street and we need to resurface it to attract new businesses; and 3)Kids – except for the pool and city park there is nothing in the town for the younger kids. The kids will be the future of this city and we need to show them we care.
How should the city participate in efforts to provide attractive residential neighborhoods?
Kersey: Enforce the city codes. Follow through and stop making idle threats.
What should be the city’s role in the revitalization of Grand Junction’s Main St be? To what extent should public funds be used that work?
Kersey: Resurfacing Main Street with black top to give people something worth driving on. Public funds should be used within the boundaries of the law.
What should be the city of Grand Junction’s role in determining the future of the school building should the Greene County Community School District eventually close it as a student attendance center?
Kersey: That should come to a public vote on what to do if it came down to that. Due to the fact it would affect the whole community.
In fewer than 50 words, why would you be a great mayor for Grand Junction?
Kersey: I have the knowledge and ability to get this city back on the map. We are stuck. Yes, we have a beautiful community center being built, but how many years did that take? We need to act a little faster on some things. Snails’ pace isn’t working. Grand Junction has stalled; I believe I can fix that. We have a great city council; they just need a new leader.
