In just two months, the city of Clinton is getting a new mayor.
Will Purdie ran uncontested in the race for City Hall. Purdie is a Clinton native who has served as the City Judge and Attorney. It was his legal career that he says has prepared him to take on the role of mayor.
“I think it is imperative that cities elect people who not only have the knowledge and understanding, but also the connection and commitment to those particular communities that allow them to preserve what makes those communities special,” Purdie said. “I think my background allows me to fit that bill in a unique manner.”
Purdie praised law enforcement in Clinton and wants to make sure the brick streets continue to be safe. He would like to accomplish this by raising officer salaries and adding 10 new officers to the force. He would also like to expand the number of specialty units of first responders.
“The hard truth is, our immediate neighbor is the most violent city in America,” Purdie said. “It’s the murder capital of America. It’s up there in the world, unfortunately. I hope they can get a handle on that, but we have to take steps to prevent it from spilling over into our city. Our police force has done a remarkable job of that.”
Purdie is also looking forward to new ways to boost Clinton’s economic development. The Clinton-Raymond-Bolton Waste Water project and the Rising Spring development project in partnership with Mississippi College are just some of the ways Purdie is looking to accomplish that. In addition, Purdie wants to invest in more residential development.
“I think we will continue to attract young families,” Purdie said. “One of the ways I would like to do that is to work with some of the local residential developers to spur some home growth.”
Purdie views Mississippi College as a vital part of the community and hopes to strengthen the city’s bond with the university.
“I’ve often said that when you come from the campus down Jefferson Street in Olde Towne, it should really feel more like a college town than it does,” Purdie said. “It has gone a long way in that direction, but it should really buy in from the college, the city, and the Olde Towne businesses. Really, I would like to get everyone rowing in the same direction, probably, for the first time.”
Purdie will officially be sworn into office on July 1.
