As someone who has never run for political office before, Roachdale resident Mark Ketchem has seen enough to know he can make a difference. 
It's why Ketchem has thrown his hat into the ring for one of three at-large council seats on the Roachdale council. 
He will be facing current councilwoman Katrina Asher, and opponents Kyle Crooks, Paul Wireman and Zach Bowers, who had once served on council. 

"I am a long time resident, 20-plus years, and I have seen the town through a lot of ups and downs. I had recently taken a job working for the Town and, at that point, I realized things needed to change. I want my small, thriving town to return and want the community to come back together to make that happen," Ketchem told The Putnam County Post. 

He said his goal, if elected, is to make Roachdale a "better place for all the residents, businesses and, also, the employees of the town."

As for the issues facing Roachdale, Ketchem admits there are several. 

"Lack of structure and accountability, and no drive to improve," he said. 

Ketchem acknowledged he would look into fully supporting local businesses that, as he said, are not being supported. 

"I will push to bring in appropriate businesses that I believe will keep our small town feel and also bring prosperity to our town, small businesses that will be committed to helping the community as much as we are," Ketchem said. 

In order to change things, Ketchem notes he would start with "full transparency and accountability."

"If a mistake is made, we are human, but you can't correct something if you don't own it. I will also strive to push for things that will improve the wellbeing of the town and the people the same," Ketchem said. 

As for why voters should vote for him, Ketchem said if people want to live in a beautiful, peaceful town as they have for generations and want to see better changes made, he is the man for the job. 

"I, along with some of my running mates, will push to make sure it stays a great place to call home and to be able to run a business. More importantly, it will be a great place to be able to raise a family and enjoy life," Ketchm said. 

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