LABELLE --  LaBelle City Commissioner Julie Wilkins was elected in 2015.  But she actually grew up in city hall with her mother, Sherri Craichy, who served the City of LaBelle as a commissioner for ten years and as mayor for 12 years.

“We use to tease her that the city was her fourth child,” Wilkins said. “So I would say I love LaBelle, like my sister.”

Wilkins' experience has been, tough, she explained, “I ran for commissioner to make things better. We all have ways we can improve. The city is no different.  It has been challenge to keep folks informed and get folks involved.”’

Why is she running for mayor? “I love LaBelle. I have a vision that I can only accomplish as mayor, who is the administrator for the city,” she said. “As mayor, I will be available, ready to help and creative in addressing issues.”

Wilkins believes, “Citizens should be aware of projects, problems or zoning changes in their neighbors. We need to live stream our meetings on Facebook;  inform citizens when positions are available, reach out to folks to get their input.”

She also explained, “We have a major issue with DOT. We have to stop DOT from putting one way streets through LaBelle, one way from Cowboy Way to the river, both Bridge Street and Main Street.  It will hurt our businesses and destroy our peaceful waterfront by the library and the park.”

“We have to clean up our streets, parks and buildings and encourage businesses and residents to do the same.” Wilkins continued, “As a commissioner, I have been able to help citizens resolve specific problems.  Although there have been times, where I have fought for, but was unable to help.”

 “LaBelle is a beautiful city, but we are not taking care of it as we should," she added.