Jamie Hicks, a staunch advocate for change, announced Friday he will run for mayor of La Salle in 2025 with the goal of bringing back the city everyone loves and ensuring everyone has a voice.

“I have lived in La Salle for over 23 years,” he said in a statement. “During this time, I have witnessed many changes in our city and, unfortunately, many of them have discouraged me. The current leadership has allowed this city to fall into a state of neglect and it is time for change.”

“That’s why I’m running for mayor – to bring back the city we all know and love, and to ensure the people of La Salle have a voice heard and respected.”

Hicks will join incumbent Mayor Jeff Grove and Gary Hammers in running for mayor.

Hicks said in a news release that now is the time for transparency and action because the city should have made meaningful changes, and he will lead the way in making that happen.

“We need economic development, major infrastructure repairs, clean water, clean air and, above all, to feel safe in our own community,” he said in the release press. “When emergencies arise, we need to know that the city is prepared and has our best interests at heart. Under my leadership, I will do everything in my power to make these changes a reality and return the city to its residents.

Hicks said public safety is a top priority for him and he plans to collaborate with all manufacturers in La Salle, especially after the Jan. 11, 2023, Carus Chemical fire.

“This incident should have been eye-opening, but instead it turned into an ongoing nightmare that has still not been properly resolved,” he said in a press release. “I will ask these businesses to follow strict guidelines and enforce all orders to ensure they prioritize the safety of our community. Polluters will be held accountable and I will work closely with state law to enforce safety protocols.

Hicks said he would also address the housing crisis, ensuring La Salle’s most vulnerable residents, particularly those in high-rise buildings, have safe places to live.

As for infrastructure, Hicks said he would address faulty and undersized water pipes and ensure water supplies are removed from flood-prone areas.

“We will stop applying short-term solutions to long-term problems, especially on our streets, which have been neglected for too long,” he said.

Hicks said in a news release that he is committed to promoting commercial business without sacrificing the needs of La Salle residents and wants to attract businesses in a way that benefits the entire community. He said it starts with making sure infrastructure can support them.

“It’s heartbreaking to see what La Salle has become over the last two years,” he said. “The current administration has failed us with lies and deception. The mayor has his own agenda, and that doesn’t include you. I will ensure that I prioritize the needs of all residents, not just those of a privileged few.

Hicks said in a news release that he plans to hold city employees accountable for properly maintaining city equipment and ensuring they receive proper training. This will save the city money and improve services such as street sweeping and sewer maintenance, he said.

“Our city’s infrastructure deserves better care, and I will make sure that happens,” he said.

He said he would ensure the city follows all state, local and federal laws regarding job openings and would not cut corners or play favorites. Contractors will be held to high standards, Hicks said.

“La Salle is my home and I believe it is time for us to reclaim it together,” he said. “Let’s work to build a city we can all be proud of – a city that is safe, prosperous and transparent. »