In 1969 Jessica Ashley’s father built the fulfillment of his American Dream—a home in Lansingburgh wher he could raise his family.
Jessica Ashley, Independent City Council candidate for District 1 in Troy, wants to see that her father’s dream is possible for her children.
"I want my children to be able to live in the home that my father built. I want them to be able to return to Troy that isn’t a ‘ghost-town’ after they finish college," said Ashley.
Although Ashley, a long-time community activist, ran on many issues, her concern for Troy’s quality of life and its future drove her in her first run for public office.
During her campaign, Ashley resolved not to look at poll numbers or get discouraged by the uphill battle she wages.
"I can’t say but positive things about the door-to-door campaign. I have given my best. I stand on my word, my integrity. If the people are ready for change they will vote for me," said Ashley.
Ashley found that many in Troy, especially young adults, were disillusioned with the entire political process.
"It’s really an issue of people being involved in the decisions that affect all our lives. They don’t know if [voting] is really worth it," said Ashley.
Even though a major theme of her campaign is restoring confidence in government and she registered a number of first time voters, she remains surprised at how many adults have never voted.
The position of District 1 within City Hall and in the city as a whole was another key issue brought forward during the campaign.
North Troy residents have the highest tax burden in Troy and lack key tax-payment options available in other areas of the city.
Ashley was endorsed by the Troy Record yesterday, but finished third. Republican Mark Wojcik won the election with 1010 votes, Democrat Catherine Conroy garned 865 votes, and Ashley garnered 77 votes.
Despite her loss, Ashley plans to continue her work in Lansinburgh, Troy oldest neighborhood.
"I have been an advocate in this community for many years. I will continue to attend council meetings and share my concerns. I hope that those council members elected today will listen to their constituents," said Ashley in concession.
The Troy City Council is elected in a citywide election every two years to serve a two year term. Troy seats a total of nine council members, one from each of the six districts and three members by an at-large vote.
