Opinion – William Woods: Jonathan Trimble says Florence deserves leadership, not career politicians

Part of a series on Florence City Council candidates

Jonathon Trimble describes himself as a differently abled citizen of Florence. Bound to a wheelchair, Trimble doesn’t let that stop him from being a vocal member of the community.

“I feel we need more diversity on Florence City Council. We need a mix of people, with different ideologies, from different walks of life, with different life experiences – which enable them to represent our entire community.”

Prioritizing the study of expansion within the city, Trimble admonished those who ignore increased traffic jams on roadways, along with the increased number of industrial and corporate facilities.

“Managing the growth of the City of Florence is especially important. We must be conscious of not driving development beyond the capacity of the current infrastructure to handle.”

Trimble plans to spend his time focusing on “The basics of governing: constituent services – repairing city streets, installing crosswalks, advocating for increased public safety, and assisting startup businesses.”

Commenting on the extended terms of current members and the possible return of former Mayor Diane Whalen, Trimble said he has the utmost respect for Whalen but claims her previous position gives her an unfair advantage over other candidates.

“Government office should not be a lifetime entitlement. Every elected or appointed office should have term limits and age limits. More citizens can then have an opportunity to serve the community.” The long-time resident said term limits are needed “to prevent a few people from developing an impenetrable power base that ultimately leads to corruption.”

Trimble says he “wants to make a difference” by serving Florence citizens.

“I believe government is a place where we can make lives better. I believe that citizens are more concerned about the direction of the City of Florence than they have been in the past. The city is quickly losing its small-town feel; that is one reason why I am running for city council.”

Focused on the taxpayer dollar, Trimble said he “will scrutinize our city’s budget and finances to see how we can reduce wasteful spending, while also focusing on the local economy, keeping the taxes low for residents.”

Trimble insists being an elected official is a “fiduciary responsibility,” saying “I want to be the voice at the table that is able to represent all citizens, not just a few.”

Believes he is best equipped to put aside any prejudices and biases one may have personally, while respectfully listening to people of differing viewpoints, the 58-year-old said. “Being an elected official is not about any one individual, it is about doing what is best for the community. Decisions made today might seem reasonable, but they could have serious repercussions in the long-term.”

As for drastic proposals to change the city, Trimble resists the temptation. “I think the city needs to look ahead several decades – to determine how the demographics of the area may change over time – better anticipating what challenges may lay ahead. I hope to bring a far-sighted approach to City government.”

A hopeful candidate, Trimble said he feels it’s time for a change at city hall. “I believe that it is important to have a changing of the guard. I am confident that a new generation of City Council members are up to the task. I will tell you what I know and what I don’t know, even if it’s not popular. I will ask for input and advice, and you will always have my ear.”

Trimble will appear on the November 5th Ballot with Patricia Wingo, Lesley Chambers, Angie Cable, David Osborne, J. Kelly Huff, Brian Kinross, Gary Winn, Mel Carroll, Jenna Kemper and former Mayor Diane Whalen. The next Mayoral race is in 2026.

Editor’s note: We attempted several interviews with all candidates for our 2024 Florence election series, however responses to questions and/or interview requests were not received from current Members Gary Winn, Jenna Kemper or David Osborne.

William E. Woods is a Northern Kentuckian, small business owner, and a Kentucky Colonel. He has run for public office and aims to use his two decades of business and political experience to enlighten citizens on public issues relevant to them. He lives in Boone County.

The post Opinion – William Woods: Jonathan Trimble says Florence deserves leadership, not career politicians appeared first on NKyTribune .