Jim Kilmartin announced yesterday he has decided to run for mayor of Tyrone.
Kilmartin declared his candidacy just a day after Mayor Patricia Stoner announced she would not seek a third term. (See above story)
“Serving the Tyrone community in this way would be a privilege,” said Kilmartin. “Upon learning that Mayor Stoner would not be seeking re-election this year, I saw it as an opportunity to fulfill the desire I have to serve this community in a greater measure, so my name will be appearing on the Republican ballot in the 2005 Primary Election as your mayoral candidate.
Kilmartin went on to say, “I have discussed this with Mayor Stoner and she has given me her complete support.”
In a press release, Kilmartin said he had lived his entire life in Tyrone while growing up and wanted to return to his “roots” after graduating from college.
After earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Grove City College, Kilmartin said he came back home and, “immediately, began to work hand-in-hand with people within the community in an effort to see our people prosper and their lives improve.”
He said much of his practical experience had been in solving “people problems” and working with the area’s youth.
“ I feel my formal education, and my background in working closely with people, qualifies me to competently perform the duties of mayor,” said Kilmartin.
“My desire to see Tyrone continue to do well is intensified by the fact that my wife, Jessica, and I are blessed with three beautiful children that we want to ensure have a bright future here in our community, where we are proud homeowners,” said Kilmartin. “ I serve as a pastor of a fledgling congregation and am founder and director of Joshua House in Tyrone.”
Kilmartin said if elected he would have regular office hours in the borough building and make himself available to hear about problems and take suggestions from the borough’s residents.
“I commit to you that I will not just ‘talk the talk’, but will ‘walk the walk,’” said Kilmartin.
In a brief phone interview with The Daily Herald, Kilmartin said, “I’m excited about it, I put some thought into it. This is a great opportunity, my whole heart and passion is for the town of Tyrone.”
Kilmartin said he had once sought appointment to a vacated seat on borough council, but another candidate was selected among those which had applied to fill the position.
Kilmartin said his campaign could be reached by phone at 814-684-0995 or email at jim@joshuahousetyrone.org.
