Odell Announces Candidacy For Mayor Of Rochester
InkFreeNews
Editor’s Note: Article provided by Trent Odell.
ROCHESTER — Trent Odell is a Republican running for mayor of Rochester in 2023. The following is an introduction, to tell voters about who Odell is, why he is running, the journey which brought him to his decision and the qualifications that make him suitable for the office.
Odell and his wife Stacy have been married for 36 years. They have two daughters, Brittanie and Alyssa, and five grandchildren.
“I have been a lifelong grain and livestock farmer in northwest Howard County, and in 2012, my wife and I were blessed to buy a cottage on the east side of Lake Manitou. We have since fallen in love with the community, became residents and in 2019, purchased what was formerly known as Fansler Lumber Company. We changed the name to Odell Lumber and Supply as we felt it was necessary to rebrand and portray a new direction for the company, though we ensured to keep the values that made this company what it has been in the community for many years before we entered the scene. Quickly, I became aware of how much I enjoyed working with the people of this community.”
A couple years ago, Odell began considering running for mayor of the community he now called home, but he did not share the idea with anyone except his wife and a close confidant; however, several life changes, including the purchase of the lumberyard, had his mind otherwise occupied. So, he was all the more shocked when he was randomly approached by a community member about running for mayor of Rochester.
“Maybe this was my confirmation that it was time to take the next step.” Odell embarked on a “research time,” during which he talked to additional community members. “I have received such great support and positive affirmation that running for mayor is the right next step for me. In addition, other circumstances have opened to allow me to be fully committed to the role of mayor.”
Odell has held many leadership roles in the past. These have included church leadership positions such as elder, deacon, interim pastor for nearly a year in 2001 and worship leader for over 20 years. He also coached varsity boys’ basketball for a small Christian School in Kokomo from 2002-2006 and led men’s weekend retreats.
“My style and my heart are to serve. I want to help the people of Rochester be the best they can be. My strength is open communication and spending more time listening than speaking. I want to hear what each of you has to say. Your voice is as important as anyone else’s, and I will make available to constituents opportunities to share their ideas and opinions. I desire to be a mayor who recognizes people’s passion for their community and does everything in my power to encourage and enable them to be successful in their role.”
“I’m a grace giver, but I also believe in accountability. I believe a vision of unity needs to be cast across party lines as well as city and county governments. We must all work together for the benefit of this community. It is essential to ensure we create a better future for the next generation. It would be my honor to work with anyone who places the community first and foremost.”
Anyone who wishes to reach out to Odell may do so at [email protected], and he will respond as soon as he is able.