Why I am running.

Hi Neighbor!

My campaign journey didn’t begin with a grand plan. It began with a series of small moments — quiet, powerful reminders of what it means to be part of a community. But there was one moment that changed everything for me.

In May 2023, I was walking my dogs through Point Defiance Park when a shooting occurred nearby. Amid the confusion, I found myself suddenly responsible for the safety of four young boys who I had never met but who had become separated from their track coach as the gunfire rang out.

What happened next stays with me to this day: neighbors rushed out of their homes without hesitation, helping me usher the children to safety. The police secured the scene across the street while we worked together to calm the boys and eventually reunite them with their coach. In the days that followed, we connected with the school to help improve their emergency response plans — turning a terrifying experience into a learning opportunity.

That day, I saw the very best of Ruston: bravery, compassion, quick action — and community. And I knew I wanted to be part of helping protect and preserve that spirit, not just in emergencies, but every day.

What Drives Me

Preserving our Small-Town Charm. I’ve lived in Ruston for nearly four years. It’s a place where people show up for each other — not just in crisis, but with everyday kindness. As our city grows, I’m committed to protecting that neighborly spirit and ensuring new development reflects the values we cherish.

Building a Responsive Government. Too often, people feel unheard by local leadership. I want to change that. Whether it's a parking issue or a zoning concern, your voice should matter — and you should know where to take it.

Championing Transparency & Accountability. Decisions made at city hall should not be hidden in hard-to-access meeting minutes. I’m committed to clear communication, open processes, and earning your trust.

Why It Matters:

  • Ruston is a ‘Code City’ meaning we do not have referendum rights (i.e. what the council decides cannot be overturned by a signed petition, and we don’t have the right to directly vote on city issues), so who you elect matters greatly.

  • City council meeting minutes are currently difficult to access — and not every resident has time to dig through city websites to find them.

  • As Ruston’s population density grows in response to HB1110, we need our leaders to make a conscious shift to proactive planning, not reactive scrambling.

  • Many residents I’ve spoken with don’t know who to call for basic city issues — including when N Commercial Street experienced water bubbling up from the asphalt last year, and that’s a problem I’m prepared and ready to fix.

My campaign is about problem-solving, and restoring confidence in the systems meant to serve us.

Rooted in Ruston. Working for you.

  • Vote for Jessica for Ruston's City Council Position 4