Atkinson Files for Freeport Mayoral Candidacy, Pledging Transparent, Honest, and Effective Leadership

[Freeport, IL] – October 21, 2024 – On this official first day of filing, Joshua T. Atkinson proudly announces his

candidacy for Mayor of Freeport, Illinois. Atkinson is stepping forward with a bold platform of transparent, honest,

and effective leadership aimed at tackling the city’s most urgent challenges, including failing infrastructure, a housing

crisis, rising crime, and economic instability. His campaign is built on a commitment to taking meaningful action

and uniting Freeport’s diverse community for a stronger future.

“With today’s filing, I officially reaffirm my commitment to the people of Freeport,” said Atkinson. “This city needs

leadership that listens, understands the issues, and takes real steps to solve them. My goal is to get Freeport working

for everyone, not just the wealthy or well-connected.”

Fixing Infrastructure and Addressing the Housing Crisis

Atkinson’s campaign centers on addressing Freeport’s crumbling infrastructure and the housing crisis. His plan

focuses on ensuring homeowners can remain Freeport residents and protecting property values by addressing the

root causes of neglect in city management.

“We need to make sure our streets, utilities, and homes are safe and secure,” said Atkinson. “People shouldn’t feel

like they’re being pushed out of their homes or seeing their property devalued. I will fight to protect the

community.”

Fighting Crime and Supporting Mental Health

Atkinson is also focused on improving public safety by tackling the root causes of crime. His approach includes

stronger measures to remove illegal drugs and firearms from the streets and address the addiction and mental health

issues affecting the community. He believes in creating long-term solutions that go beyond policing, helping people

recover and lead productive lives.

“We need a balanced approach to crime—one that doesn’t just punish but also helps those in need,” Atkinson said.

“By dealing with addiction and mental health challenges, we can make Freeport safer for everyone.”

Creating Jobs and Reversing Population Decline

A key part of Atkinson’s vision is making Freeport an attractive destination for businesses, both big and small. By

promoting economic growth and job creation, Atkinson aims to reverse Freeport’s population decline and reduce

the tax burden on residents, fostering a more vibrant and sustainable community.

“Freeport should be a place where businesses want to invest and where families want to stay,” said Atkinson. “I’m

committed to bringing jobs and economic stability to this city, which will benefit everyone.”

Unifying the Community for a Stronger Future

Atkinson emphasizes the need for unity, saying that the divisions across Freeport based on location, race, and

income must come to an end. He plans to lead a city council that will listen to all residents, ensuring everyone has a

voice in decisions that affect their lives.

“For too long, Freeport has been split along lines that shouldn’t exist,” said Atkinson. “As mayor, I will work to

bring us together, to listen, and to build a Freeport that works for everyone, no matter who you are or where you

live.”

About Joshua T. Atkinson

Joshua T. Atkinson is a U.S. Navy veteran turned businessman, community advocate, and business developer. He

leads with strength and compassion, believing that the role of mayor is not to dictate but to listen, advise, and

educate based on facts, ultimately representing the will of the people. Atkinson is committed to serving as a leader

who understands that the position of mayor is one of service and collaboration, always putting the needs of the

community first.