Tori Jennings, an anthropology lecturer at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and chair of the Stevens Point Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), recently announced her candidacy for the District 1 seat on the Stevens Point Common Council up for election Tuesday, April 4.

After knocking on hundreds of constituents’ doors, Jennings said she is encouraged by the many residents who have shared their ideas for a better Stevens Point. Some common concerns are emerging, such as maintenance of rental properties and nuisance behavior.

As an advocate for safe, attractive and economically vibrant neighborhoods, Jennings said she recognizes the city’s incredible potential.

“District 1 deserves a representative who responds to the questions and concerns of its constituents,” she said.

Jennings was appointed to BPAC in 2015 by Stevens Point Mayor Mike Wiza. Jennings said her commitment to Stevens Point is demonstrated through the numerous volunteer hours she has worked to address transportation, safety and redevelopment opportunities in Stevens Point.

She is co-author of a $390,141 Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) grant application to improve transportation efficiency throughout the city. Stevens Point was selected to receive the grant this past fall.

The community-wide infrastructure project that will add 13.16 miles of marked and signed bicycle lanes, urban shoulders and shared lane marking on existing collector and arterial streets.

Jennings said her professional leadership and management experience as a former firefighter, paramedic, and fire captain, is an asset when navigating challenging city issues.

Jennings holds a doctorate in anthropology and specializes in rural communities and small cities. As a seven-year resident of District 1, Jennings said she hopes responsive representation will encourage residents to contact her with questions, concerns and ideas.

She also said she has been endorsed by Wisconsin Progress and the Central Labor Council. For more information about Jennings and her campaign, visit torijenningsalder.com.