In an effort to help the public make informed decisions in the upcoming Consolidated Election April 4th, we at WROY/WRUL News asked candidates in the contested races for the City of Carmi to fill out a short questionnaire.
Jason Draper
Carmi Township Highway Commissioner
- Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born and raised in Carmi. I have been married to an amazing wife and mother, Lee Ann Draper for 14 years. We have two amazing kids, Lincoln 10, and Emmaline 5 (6 on election day). I graduated from CWCHS in 1995, and from Wabash Valley College in 1997 with an Associates in Applied Science (Agricultural Production). I am the owner of Draper Drainage LLC. I am a member of the Illinois Land Improvement Contractors Association where I am a Certified Contractor in Excavating and Drainage. Member and past president of the Carmi Lions Club. We attend and are active in Emmanuel United Methodist Church.
- Why do you want to serve?
We Americans are very good at talking about what we disagree with but more often than not we don’t take any action. I am more than willing to step up and serve the people of Carmi Township. With my experience and knowledge of excavating, drainage, and business management I can greatly improve our roads with the resources of the Township and use taxpayer dollars wisely and efficiently. I am a taxpayer like all the rest, and I would love to see our tax dollars at work!
- What are the biggest issues you see facing your desired position? How do you plan to address these issues?
Our roads have fallen way behind today’s technologies and equipment. Our local economy depends on the Agriculture and Oil industries, and the equipment is getting larger and heavier for these producers to do their jobs efficiently. Most of the roads in Carmi Township were carved out well over a century ago, and very little change to these roads has taken place since. My plans are to start from the soil up rebuilding roads and ditches little by little until all roads can handle today’s traffic and large equipment. Most people don’t realize that in this part of the country, drainage is the most important aspect of roads, building foundations, and farm land. To have and to keep a good stable road you have to remove water to keep a strong long lasting base.
- What sets you apart from the other candidates? Why should voters choose you on April 4th?
I have always been active and supportive of my community. With my 20+ years of heavy equipment operating and construction experience, knowledge, and 15+ years of small business management, I can greatly improve our roads and bridges efficiently and honorably. If elected I will be there to do exactly what I have stated above because I am a man of great determination. God has blessed me in many ways, but what I have today was not handed to me, I have and will continue to work through blood, sweat, and tears for it. No matter what the job or challenge is, I will take it on. I would greatly appreciate your support on April 4th to be your next Carmi Township Highway Commissioner.
