JOHNSON (KFSM) - Buddy Curry has been Mayor of Johnson for one term, and is now seeking re-election in Johnson
In his way is his opponent, police lieutenant Chris Keeney.
Curry tells 5NEWS that his time in office shows his dedication.
“I meet a lot of people,” Curry said. “In 3 years, it takes a lot of time to meet these people, to know who to go to to ask for a grant, where everything is at. It takes a long time to do that, Curry said.
Keeney says his service as a police officer is equally as strong, which will help him, if elected.
“You have got to find the best way to handle those complaints based on the community, and law,” Keeney said. “I think I can bring reference to the community, what the community wants. I spoke with a lot of people within the community.”
Curry says he has demonstrated over the years his ability to lead.
“The city has turned around tremendously, and we are actually on an uphill swing, we are actually doing a lot better,” Curry said.
Both candidates highlighted the opening of the new Johnson Blvd. as a centerpiece for business in Johnson.
“We need to get some sidewalks started,” Curry said. “Some kind of a program there so people downtown can walk from business to business. And, we need to grow downtown Johnson.”
“The road actually brings increased traffic, as well as an easier way to get through the city,” Keeney said. “Without any businesses on the road, it is nothing more than just a road, though.”
Mayor Curry is a subject of an investigation by Washington County authorities into possible campaign violations, and money missing from city hall.
Both candidates say they are aware of the investigation.
However, both say they won’t let it impact their campaigns.
“It is going to be up to the citizens,” Curry said. “I have not done anything wrong.”
“That is up to the community, that is up to the voters, and I will let them make the decision,” Keeney said. “I know as much as anyone else about the investigation.”
Curry said he, personally, won’t be impacted by the investigation.
''I’m trying to run my campaign on my experiences, on what I have done for this city, and not on what somebody claims I have done,” Curry said.
Both candidates say they are confident that their time visiting with citizens of Johnson during this campaign will win them the seat.
The general election will be held November 4.