Former state Rep. Harold Copenhaver has announced he’s running for mayor of Jonesboro.

His prepared statement:

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Over the past few months I have been asked by many citizens, of all backgrounds, to enter the race for Mayor of Jonesboro. These individuals believe it’s time our city is managed by a leader of integrity who will focus on transparency while solving problems for all of our community. Addressing the challenges facing our city must start with City Hall earning the trust of the people of Jonesboro. We have to always focus on eliminating wasteful spending while finding creative ways to increase revenue. The growth of Jonesboro has led to many new challenges that require our city to be proactive rather than reactive. We must fulfill our responsibilities before starting additional projects. Jonesboro has a bright future as long as we have a leader that is focused on bettering our quality of life at all times.

My family and I love this community and believe in its potential which is why we have decided to announce my candidacy for Mayor of Jonesboro. My wife Kathleen and I believe my experience as Jonesboro’s State Representative uniting lawmakers, industries, businesses and citizens makes me the right person to bring our community together. As Mayor, I will work hand and hand with ASU, our hospitals, Chamber of Commerce, industries, businesses and citizens of Jonesboro to ensure our local economy can be strengthened rather than divided. I will always have an open door to guarantee the ideas and needs of the people of Jonesboro are heard.

Mayor Harold Perrin is seeking re-election and several others have also announced. Copenhaver, a Democrat, was defeated in a state legislative re-election bid by Republican Brandt Smith in 2014.

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