Democrat files to run for Columbus City Council seat

There is another race for Columbus City Council on the November ballot. A Democrat and an independent have filed to run against Republican incumbent Dascal Bunch for the District 1 seat on the council, representing the East Columbus neighborhoods.

30-year-old Democrat Jerone Wood filed the paperwork last week to run against Bunch for the seat.

Wood is a leasing agent, married and has four children. He graduated from Columbus East High School, and has a bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University. He is also a track coach and has a background working with youth.

Wood said he is dedicated to helping the youth in our community. He sees that as one of his three priorities, if elected.

Wood said he also is prioritizing the opioid crisis and homelessness.

Wood’s addition means Bartholomew County Democrats are running candidates in all the City Council races in November. They have yet to recruit candidates to run for mayor and clerk-treasurer.

The District 1 seat was held for years by Democrats, August “Augie” Tindell and Priscilla Scalf,  before the Republican Bunch won election to two terms. Although a political newcomer, Wood said he plans to work hard to win it back.

Our news-gathering partners at The Republic report that independent Michael Kinder has also filed to run for the District 1 seat on the council, making for a three-way race.