As a self described "independent person politically," Derek Jorgensen looks to give voters a choice this election, as he is seeking one of three at-large seats on the Greencastle City Council. 

Jorgensen will face Katherine Asbell, Kim Fidler, Mark Hammer, Gary Lemon and incumbent Darrell Thomas in the at-large race. 

"I have always considered myself an independent person politically.  I have never in my life seen a viable independent candidate on a ballot.  I also noticed that all of our at large representation on the current city council fails to have representation from anyone who understands the daily challenges of parenting and raising a family in the 2020s.  Rather than be frustrated by this, I realized I could change it by running for city council myself," Jorgensen told The Putnam County Post. 

Jorgensen said some of the biggest issues facing Greencastle center around roads, loose animals and drivers speeding through neighborhoods and stop signs. 

"I believe everyone in the city cares about the roads, so getting support to continue improving them shouldn't be a stretch.  The city code already has rules regarding responsible pet ownership.  Speeding and running stop signs are already against the law as well.  We just need to make sure the rules that exist are being enforced," he said. 

Jorgensen said a question such as what are the biggest issues facing the city of Greencastle is a fair sounding question, but noted there's more to it. 

"It's a fair sounding question for someone running for office these days, but it only seems fair because we have been conditioned to assume politicians have an unbendable agenda and don't care about the constituents.  I'd like to make sure every Greencastle citizen knows I'm happy to answer questions or listen to concerns about the city.  New data and facts can help with making more informed decisions," Jorgensen said. 

As he runs for office, Jorgensen said he has a simple message to voters. 

"I want the voters to know I don't represent any political party, business, social club, or other special interests.  I am running to provide the citizens and taxpayers a voice on the city council that is not tainted by these influences," Jorgensen said. 

He said anyone wishing to reach out to him can do so by emailing Jorgensen at dj4gcc@gmail.com.