Bill Ruddock: For Chelsea City Council

Why am I running? Long answer: Chelsea Youth!

As someone who is relatively new to politics and serious campaigning, I have been surprised how often I have been asked why I’m running.

My usual short answer is that I want to apply my experience, capabilities, and hope to contribute in positive ways to the city I have grown to love. I want to help City Council model listening, visioning, and implementing initiatives.

But, going deeper, there was a trigger that ultimately launched me into running for City Council. For me, that trigger came last summer when Laura and I began attending and participating in the Anti-Racist Chelsea Youth protests and open mic sessions. At these we learned about the experience of some of our youth in Chelsea. Protests against the killing of black and brown people by law enforcement in other “bigger” cities, turned to issues right here in Chelsea. Our youth showed tremendous courage. They were calling for us to change and work on policies to help us be a more welcoming and more economically and racially diverse community. I felt their call to actively engage.

The actions of our youth led to a series of listening sessions with City Council. I listened too. The stories I heard revealed there was much that can be done to embrace all who live, work, visit and play in Chelsea. I too am energized by the possibilities.

Thank you ARCY, thank you for raising your voice in this community. I can assure you, I have heard your call to action.

Please get to know the Mayoral Candidates. Chelsea Update has each of the candidate's responses to a set of questions.

Meet Your Chelsea Mayoral Candidates - Chelsea Update: Chelsea, Michigan, News On Nov. 2, Chelsea voters will choose a new mayor and three city council members, all for four year terms. In addition to what they answered for Chelsea Update, here is the link to the ... Read more

I intend to be at this meet and greet! I look forward to meeting Chelsea residents there!