Joe Brandner said he is running for Park Hills City Council to improve communication among residents with different viewpoints and create more opportunities for people to connect in the city.
Brandner has lived in Park Hills for more than 10 years and said his family has ties to the area going back generations. He said disagreements within the city can make productive conversations difficult and wants residents with differing views to feel heard.
Brandner faces Marty Boyer, Lee Burkett, Greg Claypole, Joe Daugherty, Steve Elkins, Dan Lutz, Pamela Spoor, Carl Trinkle and Dan Warner in the Nov. 3 general election.
“I do still feel compelled to serve on city council, for the whole city,” Brandner said.
Brandner said he wants to approach disagreements with respect and focus on areas where residents can find common ground. He also said he believes city leaders should make room for new ideas and changes as the community evolves.
If elected, Brandner said he wants to stay accessible to residents and listen to their perspectives while working toward improvements with broad community support.
If required to identify an initial policy priority, Brandner said he would focus on “economic gardening” along Dixie Highway and improving access to recreational opportunities throughout Park Hills.
Brandner said his overall goal is to encourage residents to work together despite differences and find ways to improve the city’s shared spaces and sense of community.