Democrats to run Smith for 6th Ward seat

4 months ago by Denise Donley

Former County Board member and current Quincy Firefighter to run for Quincy alderman

The Adams County Democratic party plans to nominate Jerry Smith of Quincy to run for City Council 6th ward Alderman.

Jerry Smith is a Firefighter for the City of Quincy, owner of Advantage Pest Control and former Adams County Board member. He will run against current 6th Ward Alderman Dan Brink in the April 9 election.

Smith was nominated for the empty position by the party since no one filled out nominating petitions. Smith said this is the right time to run for Alderman for him and his family to.

When asked what he would like to bring to the council, he responded, “More than anything, common sense. There are things that were voted on during Brink’s term that I didn’t agree with like hydropower. There are things the city and the 6th ward need, and I would like to see things taken care of.”

Adams County Democratic Chairman Ross Miller said Smith has many qualifications that make him an ideal candidate for alderman.

"I think his background in the community both in business and working for the fire department and being involved in the City gives him a very good working knowledge of how the city works and what needs to be done," said Miller.

City Clerk Jenny Hayden says state law was recently changed to allow policemen and firefighters of a municipality to run for City Council seats as long as they abstained from votes that directly affected their departments.

Adams County Clerk Georgia Volm said the Adams County Democratic Party has not officially filed Smith's candidacy yet, but they have until January 30 to do so.

Brink is excited to run for the campaign and his record speaks for itself.

“My willingness to ask the tough questions sets me apart from my opponent,” said Brink.”I understand he is upset with some of my decisions in regards to the Quincy Fire Department. QFD is in a better position than they were four years ago, and I think the fire service is well served and moving forward. I’m proud of my record I’m looking forward to running for office and explaining my choices to the residents of the 6th ward.”