Flint, MI — Jonathan Jarrett has won the special recall election for Flint City Council’s 9th Ward seat.
On May 8, 2024, Jarrett won with 247 votes. He ran against Page Brousseau and Kathryn Irwin, who received 145 and 85 of the corresponding votes, respectively.
Jarrett will complete Eva Worthing’s term through November 2026.
Read about Jarrett and his plans for Flint below.
Can you tell me about yourself and your history with Flint?
I am Jonathan Jarrett, a resident of the City of Flint most of my life. I am married to Eva Jarrett, and we have seven adult children and five grandchildren in a blended family.
What specific plans do you have to address blight and vacant properties in Flint?
I would address blight from two perspectives: that of the citizens and that of government. With individual citizens, I would re-enforce accountability and responsibility to maintain the property where one resides. Whether an owner or renter, ensuring lawns are kept and property is clear of debris should be a priority. I support the efforts of Neighborhood Safety Officers who monitor and enforce laws and ordinances. I will advocate for streets and sidewalks being in good condition so that they do not create hazards nor the destruction of property. I will work as a liaison to ensure light posts are in place and work properly.
How do you plan to enhance collaboration between law enforcement and community organizations to address crime?
I believe residents need to be aware of community organizations that exist in our areas, whether block club, crime watch, or some other coalition. Once people are aware, encourage engagement and participation. ‘See something, say something’ is real, and it is not “snitching”, especially when something is happening to you or your property. In meetings and conversations with law enforcement, I’ve come to understand they want partnership and welcome collaboration. Policing or maintaining public order is not just for sworn officers; it is everyone’s responsibility to assist in public safety.
What policies or initiatives do you support to address the challenges faced by Flint’s public schools, such as infrastructure, resources, and academic achievement?
For many years, Flint Schools have experienced declining enrollment that result in less funding and buildings that are either underutilized or are no longer needed. The buildings that are no longer in use create safety and blight issues. Some of those buildings have been made available for sale. For those still in the inventory, the next steps must be urgently considered. Securing and maintaining unused buildings adds a financial drain to an already depleted budget. Those funds would better be used in service toward the academic success of our scholars.
What steps will you take to attract new businesses and industries to Flint, promoting economic growth and job creation?
Attracting new businesses and industries is a challenge when businesses that employ at scale tend to want incentives and financial support from the local government. The balance is delicate between giving enough to show interest while not giving so much that a deficit is created. In deliberation and negotiation, emphasizing the logistical infrastructure and access inherent in Flint should be foremost. Also, the skilled workforce already in place shortening the learning curve of labor would also add value to seeing Flint as the place to plant their business.
Can you outline specific, measurable objectives you aim to accomplish during your term in office?
As a Councilperson, I will be one of nine votes. One vote itself will not approve a resolution nor ordinance. In that, I recognize leadership attributes and skills to be necessary. The attribute of cooperation in working with others to obtain a common goal – The Betterment of Our Community. I will leverage influence in some cases and, in others, understand where concurrence is best. I will model a way that will result in meetings being concise, agenda items being resolved, and the presentation of new ordinances where gaps are identified in current laws or ordinances. I aim to represent the citizens of the 9th Ward while promoting the movement of the total number of citizens of the City of Flint forward.