Mayoral Candidate Scott Furgeson Announces Plans and Goals
Mayoral candidate Scott Furgeson has announced his plans and goals for the City of Shelbyville as he prepares for the primary and fall 2023 election. Furgeson currently serves as the 4th Ward Representative on the Shelbyville Common Council. He previously served as the Mayor of Shelbyville from 2004 through 2011. He served on the Council for two terms prior to serving as Mayor.
Furgeson’s plans and goals focus on three areas: (1) Building a Stronger Shelbyville, (2) Economic Development, and (3) City Leadership.
Building a Stronger Shelbyville includes working to coordinate existing community services to improve mental health for residents, as well as working to provide resources to equip police officers with the knowledge necessary to respond to calls involving mental health and domestic situations. On this point Furgeson notes, “During my last terms as mayor, I saw first-hand the kinds of situations our officers were facing. We have much better resources available now to assist them, and just as importantly – through coordination with MHP – to assist our residents facing these difficulties.”
Furgeson also pledges to continue to build on the existing community amenities, and further promises to maintain these amenities, streets and sidewalks. He is committed to cleaning up blighted properties and nuisances.
Economic Development includes efforts focused both on business retention and expansion as well as new business attraction, all with the goal of providing opportunities for residents to have access to good, high-paying jobs. “I’m excited to engage with our current businesses to hear what their needs are,” Furgeson states. “We can create win-win situations that meet business needs while also providing opportunities for our residents.”
Economic Development also includes collaboration with community development organizations, county government and residential developers to ensure Shelbyville has diverse and attainable housing options. Furgeson notes, “Housing is a vital part of economic development. I see the need in our city and will work hard to meet it.”
Lastly, under City Leadership, Furgeson promises improved city services with a higher level of professionalism and more efficient processes. Furgeson notes, “As a long-term local business person, I understand how important reliability, consistency and efficiency are to customers. Strong and responsive city services instill a sense of pride in our residents that is essential to our vitality.”
Furgeson also pledges fiscal responsibility with a strategic approach to spending that keeps local tax rates low and responds to the community’s changing needs. On these points, Furgeson notes, “I have the experience and insight to proactively identify our changing needs. I also have the flexibility and discipline to change course as needed, and am willing to make quick and difficult decisions that will best serve the community.”
Furgeson welcomes input from residents at 317-401-1412 or Scott@VoteFurgeson.com.