Bland, Church vie for Ward 2, city council seat

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Voters in Palmyra’s second ward will be electing a new city council member during the upcoming April 4 General Municipal election.

Running for the seat currently filled by Andrew Salsman are Jim Church and Steve J. Bland.

Both candidates were asked to fill out a survey for the Spectator. Church chose not to submit a completed survey.

Steve J. Bland

Give a brief bio:

I was born in Quincy, Ill. but I’ve lived in Palmyra and Marion County most of my life. 

After graduating from Palmyra High School, I enlisted in the U.S. Navy for three years. 

I have been married to Brenda for 33 years. We have four grown sons (three of whom graduated from Palmyra High School). 

I am a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. 

I am employed by Merkel Metal Recycling in Palmyra.

Why seeking election to this office:

I was approached by a city council member about an upcoming vacancy in the second ward. This person felt I would be a good representative of the ward, so I attended a couple of meetings. I decided to run because I feel it would be good way to serve my community.

Why do you believe you are well suited to serve on the council:

Community betterment is important to me, as I continue to make Palmyra my home. 

I will respect other’s opinions and work within a team to move Palmyra’s goals forward. 

I will deal with budgeting and improvements realistically and conservatively.

What issues do you see as important to the city and how would you address them:

One focus will be helping to move forward the plans the council has in place regarding wastewater treatment plant upgrades. 

Parking and traffic concerns on Main Street is another issue I’d like to address. Safer intersections, along with improved visibility and traffic flow would be the end goal. 

My focus would be to consider the feasibility and financial aspects of these potential projects, with the good of Palmyra’s residents in mind.