Mayoral candidates debate to be Jackson’s next leader
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JACKSON, Tenn. — Ayers Auditorium was full as Jackson’s mayoral candidates — James Baxter, Lowe Finney, Jerry Gist, Charlie Motton and Tim York — faced off in a debate. Questions showed concern for crime and public safety. “Although we’ve seen some improvement in the violent crime rate, actually our drug offenses have gone up substantially in the past year,” candidate Lowe Finney said. Some addressed their platform. “Social reform is an adorable aspect for Jackson in my opinion,” candidate Charles Motton said. Candidates addressed what needs to be changed in education. “I am looking forward to ‘Vision 2020’ where we can get at the table, lay out our plan — we have good elements of a plan,” incumbent candidate Jerry Gist said. The men discussed where Jackson is going next. “We need a bypass to bypass the bypass, and I hope the extension is not called a bypass,” candidate Tim York said. Others were specific about the location of their development plans. “I give priority to east, south and west Jackson because they have been left behind,” candidate James Baxter said. Each closed in a final statement with their vision for the future of the Hub City. “It gives me a great opportunity of becoming Jackson’s next mayor,” Motton said. “This city is not for sale. It’s not for sale,” Gist said. “This election is about efficiency,” Baxter said. “Imagine a city that takes care of its basic needs of its citizens,” York said. “It’s time we started to do better,” Finney said. Nearly 250 were in attendance at the debate. Early voting ends April 30. Election Day is May 5.
