By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — Brad Jackson has announced his intention to enter the District 1 Kosciusko County Council ballot for 2026 after a short period away from county government.

“It’s not a new thought. It’s not just like an impulse thing. It’s something that I’ve thought about,” he said.

Brad Jackson

While filing for the 2026 election will not begin until Jan. 7, 2026, Jackson has filed his candidates statement of organization and designation of principal committee.

Jackson stated Tuesday morning, Sept. 23, seeking a seat on the county council has always been on his list, so this is nothing new in his plan for life and public service. He had served 28 years as a county commissioner announcing he would not seek reelection in February 2024. He also retired from T.L. Jackson that same time.

His original thought was to take over Doug Hines’ position on the council when he retired, but that happened earlier than anticipated. He felt being on the council would not be as demanding as that of a county commissioner.

“It doesn’t have as much demand, but yet, you’re still able to contribute,” he said.

There was also previous discussion of Jackson and Sue Ann Mitchell switching positions at one time.

He also thought about running for Syracuse Town Council in the last election as it would be a good way to serve. But Nate Scherer lost his bid for county commissioner and remained on the council.

While the idea has always been in the back of his mind, Jackson stated he was approached by an individual who shared with him that they felt he should run and that he would do a good job. Then other individuals, including other government officials, encouraged him.

“It’s kind of weird. I’ve been thinking about it. Now, I’m having people come and suggest it to me without me saying anything,” Jackson said. “I’ve been thinking about it, praying about it and now somebody else’s is talking to me about it. I thought about it even more.”

The 62-year-old Syracuse resident felt he was young enough and had more good years ahead of him to serve the public.

He stated he has no hidden agenda for seeking the position and has spoken with Kim Cates, current county councilwoman from District 1, but her intentions for reelection are unknown at this time. She stated she is looking at it seriously but has not yet made a decision.

The District 1 seat is one of four seats up for election in 2026. The other seats are for District 2, held by Joe Irwin, District 3, held by Tony Ciriello and District 4, Dave Wolkins.

Intentions by Jackson, Irwin, Ciriello and Wolkins are expected to be announced at a reception Oct. 6 at the Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion, Warsaw.