Bloomington resident Matt Caldie is running for an at-large seat on the Monroe County Council this year.
Caldie, a Democrat, is among several candidates vying for one of the three at-large seats up for election.
Caldie wrote in a news release that he will focus on building an economy with expanded job opportunities, strong wages and more affordable housing.
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“The County Council oversees the fiscal affairs of the county government, and therefore has an unparalleled opportunity to encourage sustainable growth in a way that is responsive to the concerns of residents and respectful of our natural environment,” Caldie wrote.
Caldie said he's running to help steer the county in ways that benefit the entire population, not just those with the most influence or power. He added he wants to work collaboratively with stakeholders and serve with transparency while being accessible and responsive to constituents.
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Caldie said the most important issue this election cycle is broadening economic opportunities in Monroe County. He said the county needs a wide variety of jobs offering fair wages to properly support residents.
Caldie said he has worked low-paying and physically demanding jobs, adding, "These types of choices can make residents feel like there are no good options for them."
He continued, "There are so many good employers in our community, but diversifying and expanding work opportunities would improve the economic outlook for all residents."
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Caldie has served on the Bloomington Environmental Commission for more than four years. Caldie said he helped provide updates to Bloomington’s Unified Development Ordinance and Climate Action Plan and published a Bloomington Air Quality advisory report while on the commission.
Caldie serves as a vice precinct chairperson for Perry Township and has served on campaign committees for candidates in the two most recent elections.
Last year, Caldie ran for the District 5 seat on the Bloomington City Council but dropped out to support Shruti Rana’s campaign. Rana has since announced she will resign from the council and move to Missouri.
