One incumbent, a political newcomer and a former alderman are vying for the two-year term to represent Wright City’s Ward 2 in next week’s election. Next Tuesday, voters will be asked to choose between Jim Toothman, Forrest Bruce and Angie Reynolds. Kay Janish, who also filed as a candidate, withdrew from the race due to professional reasons in January. She did not campaign. Profiles of the three remaining candidates appear below in the order in which the names will be printed on the April 2 ballot.

JIM TOOTHMAN Toothman, the incumbent who has served as an alderman since 2010, said he is running for re-election because he would like to improve Wright City by making it more appealing to new businesses while maintaining a family-oriented community. One of his top priorities, if elected, will be to continue to strive to amend some of the city’s ordinances which have caused difficulties for residents and businesses. “We need to expedite the process to establish an ordinance to define parking lot standards for the city,” Toothman said.Toothman noted that he also was “instrumental” in moving the project to raze the old Big Boy’s restaurant property along the south side of Interstate 70. During the coming year, Toothman expressed a desire for the city to work on improving the appearance of the Interstate 70 corridor running through Wright City to make the area more visually appealing for businesses considering locating in the city.

Business Attraction, Community Improvements When asked for his assessment of the city’s economic development efforts, Toothman stated that he would like to see Wright City improve its relationship with the Greater Warren County Economic Development Council which has undertaken a regional effort to attract businesses to municipalities in the area. “We got Scott’s Miracle Grow and we have the new Big Boy’s restaurant, but we’ve got a long to go to get more businesses in here,” he said. Toothman asserted that the city has been working to make improvements to improve safety and which also will help attract residents and businesses. “We’re completing the sidewalks and lighting in the downtown area this spring, and we’re working to fast-track the sidewalks for Bell Road to have it completed before the next school year begins,” he commented. “We need more sidewalks in the city to make the area safer for pedestrians. “I enjoy Wright City,” Toothman added. “I’ve lived in different states, and this is the first time I’ve settled down.”

FORREST BRUCE Bruce said he decided to file as a candidate for Ward 2 alderman noting that people must be involved in order to have a more convincing say in what is happening in the city. “If you’re going to have a voice in the community, you’ve got to get involved,” he said. “This is one way to get involved and I think I’ve got some things to offer.” Among his qualifications, Bruce noted his business and management experience, having been a line supervisor at Chrysler’s vehicle assembly plant for 13 years. Bruce did not list any priorities that he would pursue if he is elected. “You’ve got to get to know the people and get to know the leaders of your city’s government,” Bruce explained. “Once you get to know the city’s operations, then you can determine your priorities.” However, Bruce did state that he believes the city needs to attract new businesses which will help generate additional tax revenue. “It’s clear the city is trying to get new businesses in Wright City, but with the economy the way it its, I’m sure it’s hard for them,” he remarked.

ANGIE REYNOLDS Reynolds is a former alderman who served two terms representing the city’s second ward from 2008-12. She expressed a desire to become active in the community again as her reason for seeking election to the board. “Serving on the board of aldermen would allow me to be more involved with the people than I am on planning and zoning,” Reynolds remarked. “And being involved with the people is what I enjoy. “I want to do what I can for the citizens of Wright City and the City of Wright City,” she said. “I want to be a voice for the people and get answers for them when they have problems or issues.”

Among her priorities, Reynolds said she would like to ensure that the city’s ordinances are consistently enforced but that the laws also are clearly written.“I also want to make sure Wright City is a good place to live and to do business,” she stated.

Improvements ‘Across the Board’ Reynolds didn’t offer any specifics when asked what the city’s priorities and focus should be over the next year. “We need a little help in all areas and a little bit of improvement across the board.” she remarked. Additionally, she was complimentary of the city’s economic development director, Karen Girondo, and she also paid credit to the current board and the city’s law enforcement officers. “We have a good board and an excellent police department,” Reynolds said.