Looking at the fish bowl from the outside in

Last night, I had the privilege of participating in the candidate's forum at Perry Park Center. The event gave candidates a chance to tell voters a little about themselves and why they are seeking public office. It was hosted by the park center, The Republic-Monitor and the Republican and Democratic Central Committees. 

I have to admit that I was a nervous wreck! I'm a terrible public speaker, so I read my prepared statement.  During the question-and-answer portion of the event, an attendee repeatedly questioned me about not being "an active law enforcement officer," which puzzled me since I am a commissioned police officer. I work independently to enforce the municipal ordinances in Perryville and write as many tickets as many patrolmen. I was glad when it was over, and I appreciate all the people who have called me today to offer support and encouragement. 

Below is my speech, which I think pretty clearly states why I am a candidate for City Marshal. I hope you take a minute to read it and consider giving me your vote on April 8. 

Joe Martin address, Candidate's Forum, March 13, 2014

 I would like to take a second to thank you all for coming here tonight. It shows that you care about the future of Perryville.

 That’s the main reason that I am standing here tonight. I care about our community and I care about our police department and its officers.

During the last year, the Perryville Police Department had a lot of negative publicity. I am glad to say that I played no role in the investigation of our former chief and that I have not benefited from it in anyway.

Although I am still a Perryville Police Officer, I have worked independently as the code enforcement officer for the last 4 years.

I think that my distance from the police department and what has happened there gives me a great advantage as a candidate.

I use this analogy: During my 24 years of working as a patrol officer I worked inside a fish bowl. For the last 4 years, I have had the opportunity to view the fish bowl from the outside in.

I’ve had the opportunity to see many of the everyday processes that I have taken for granted and the way they affect the public.

 I’ve been reminded that no matter what a person’s name or social stature is, they are still a person. Everyone should be treated fairly and with empathy.

The good citizens we are sworn to serve should not dread having to deal with the police when getting a speeding ticket or filing a report.

The investigation has also given some people the very wrong idea that all of our officers are corrupt in some way or another. That could not be further from the truth.

 The men and women of Perryville Police Department leave their own families every day to protect ours. They don’t do it for a big paycheck or glory. They do it because being a police officer is a calling. They want to help people in need.

There are good men and women working at Perryville Police Department. They need to be given the opportunity to shine, to have a chief who sets high expectations, and then helps them reach or exceed those expectations.

Last fall the citizens of Perryville were given the opportunity to decide if the city was to appoint a City Marshal or keep it in the voter’s choice. Perryville strongly voiced their opinion, to keep it the choice of the citizens.That’s exactly why I decided to put my name on this ballot, to give people the choice.

 After Brad Pitts was removed from the race, I was especially glad I filed, because we still have a chance to choose our next city marshal instead of having it pre-determined by an appointment.

 I have 32 years in law enforcement, with 27 of those years being in a supervisory position. I have experience with budgets, and I’m known for always fighting for what’s right, not necessarily what’s popular.

I believe that Police Officers should hold themselves to a higher standard on and off duty and be proud of the uniform that they wear.  I would appreciate your vote on April 8.

Thank you!