Kicking off campaign

The rain this past Thursday didn’t dampen the spirits or the crowd for the kick-off reception for Ron Ivens’ re-election campaign. The incumbent Maryville City Councilman was the guest of honor at the home of Joe and Becky Swann on Court
Street.

Hosts for the event were Joe Swann, Steve West and Don Boring. Swann estimated that more than 150 people attended the event.

Ivens said he was humbled by his colleague’s gesture in hosting the event and the number of people who showed up to say hello and offer support.

"I’m just really honored to see so many show up with these rain conditions," he said.

Ivens said one of his goals the past two terms has been attracting good jobs to the area. Growing the industrial and commercial base has paid for the $1.6 million in school budget increases annually the past 10 years. "Because of how we’ve done on the industrial/commercial tax base, we’ve been able to fund this without going to the citizens," he said. "By doing this, you make life better for citizens."

Ivens said several people called and encouraged him to run for re-election.

"I represent the people. I don’t represent myself. That’s why I had so many people before I decided to run tell me I needed to run one for one more term," he said. "It’s hard to say no. I’m grateful to Blount County and Maryville."

Swann said Ivens is selfless in wanting to serve on the council.

"We get $25 a month," said West of the councilmen’s pay. "There’s no reward except a sense of accomplishment. He
(Ivens) has been very effective. He’s done a lot of good things for the city."

Swann praised Ivens for his work with the Maryville Children’s Fund that gives new clothing to the underprivileged. Several spoke about Ivens and why they supported him. "I think Ron has done a very good job for us," Joel Williams said. "If someone is doing a good job, why replace them?"

Steve Johnson vouched for Ivens’ character. "I go to church with him at First Baptist Maryville," Johnson said. "He’s a good guy."

Jo Stewart said Ivens has been a friend a long time. "He’s a good friend to everybody, who couldn’t vote for him?" Stewart said.

Geneva Harrison said Ivens cares about people. "He’s not a politician," Harrison said. "He’s a person who cares."
The Maryville City Council elections are Nov. 7. There are six candidates running, and the top three vote getters will be on
the council.