I believe I am a leader.

One of the reasons that Jodie Jenkins believes he will make a good Mayor of Belleville.

In an announcement behind City Hall on Wednesday, Jenkins announced that he had just filed his papers to enter into the mayoral race for Belleville.

Jenkins’ decision to make his announcement behind city hall contravenes a city bylaw that does not allow candidates to use corporate resources for election purposes. .

(See link: https://www.belleville.ca/files/Use%20of%20Corporate%20Resources.pdf)

“I believe I am a leader,” said Jenkins. “I believe I have the ability to bring people together, and I believe that I have a unique and new approach to handle the situations within this community.

Jenkins is known for having previously been elected to Belleville city council in 2010 and serving as councillor for four years.

Jenkins said that “one of the unique things that I have, is the fact that I was on council for four years” and that stepping down from the position has offered him a different viewpoint.

“The last four years I’ve been able to see things from a different view point, and I’m older than I was then,” said Jenkins. “That was eight years ago. I’ve matured, and I’m excited about putting some of the skills and wisdom I’ve been able to glean and get back in there.”

On his reasons for not seeking re-election as a councillor, Jenkins states that he “was doing it for a love for public service, because I thought I could serve the community at a greater level.”

Jenkins is known for his passion for social issues, something he says he won’t be leaving behind if elected as mayor.

“That passion won’t change at all,” he said. “I’m looking forward to talking about social issues because I don’t think there’s been enough conversation on those.”

Jenkins mentioned that he will be bringing a different leadership style to the city and tackling issues in different ways. He referred to an initiative he has been spearheading, the Grace Inn Shelter.

“It’s a completely private initiative that is addressing a fairly substantial need and I think we need to look at more opportunities to do that,” said Jenkins. “In turn, ease the burden on the tax payer..”

Specific details regarding Jenkins platform have yet to be announced. For now, Jenkins is excited to be in the race.

“I think right now, we’re excited about announcing running for mayor. In the weeks to come, we’re going to unpack more of those details, and people are going to see a clear difference in what my leadership style is all about, and my approach for the city.”

When asked why the people should be voting for him, Jenkins cited his passion.

“I think at the end of the day, you should vote for someone who’s passionate about their community, and wants to represent them well and be a voice for the community.”

“I think hands down I bring that to the table every day.”

Jenkins will be joining Taso Christopher and Mitch Panciuk in the race for Mayor of Belleville. It is possible a fourth candidate, Egerton Boyce, could enter the race with his announcement expected Friday.

— With files by Dave Vachon