There are two people running for the office of mayor in East Ridge this November. This is an important election for the citizens of East Ridge. We endorse Jim Bethune for mayor of East Ridge.
With so much attention and taxpayer money having been focused on efforts at the Exit 1 development over the past few years, the citizens and criminals have taken notice. The International Brotherhood of Police Officers Local #735 is decidedly the majority voice of the East Ridge Police Department. We have watched for the last few years the reinforcement of concrete and pavers while the resources for public safety in East Ridge have steadily deteriorated. Jim Bethune will work to properly equip the police/fire departments to provide the best service and protection possible to our citizens and work to reduce crime in East Ridge.
We want the mayor of East Ridge that will be elected to utilize the resources of the city in a fair and equitable manner. That is why we endorse Jim Bethune for mayor. For the last few years we have seen a hyper-focused utilization of our resources (tax money). The police officers of the IBPO #735 recognize the benefit of investment within our community through development and growth in new businesses. However, we also recognize the importance and necessity of insuring that the investment in our community reaches every citizen of our city. Before growth occurs, we must make certain we have the proper resources to provide services, such as law enforcement, to accommodate for the new businesses and people arriving in East Ridge.
Jim Bethune has invested his life in East Ridge. He is a lifelong resident of East Ridge. The only time he lived outside of the city was during his service to our country during the Vietnam War. Jim Bethune is the only United States veteran running for East Ridge mayor. Many of the police officers in East Ridge are veterans and some are still serving. We all recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans and current service men and women.
Jim Bethune believes in protecting the property rights of citizens and business owners. He stands against eminent domain. Jim Bethune has continued to serve East Ridge as past East Ridge Council member, vice-mayor, and through his continued volunteer work with the East Ridge Optimist Club.
Jim Bethune recognizes the unique needs of our community and with his previous career of managing a successful car dealership, his time spent as an East Ridge elected official, and helping the community behind the scenes through volunteer work, Jim Bethune has the experience needed to not only meet the needs of the East Ridge Police Department but provide for the success of the city of East Ridge. Jim Bethune is now retired and able to devote his time and efforts to the citizens of East Ridge.
The IBPO Local #735 endorses Jim Bethune for mayor of East Ridge.
International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Local #735 East Ridge
Scott Butcher, President Local #735