Galen Turner – An open letter to the residents of Ward 5

I’ve spent my entire life in Ruston, and I care deeply about the people who call our community home. As a teacher and coach at Ruston High School, I see every day how important it is to have a community where families feel safe, neighbors look out for one another, and young people have opportunities to succeed.

Protecting Our Neighborhoods

Our neighborhoods are what make Ruston and Ward 5 special. I want to protect the character of our neighborhoods and make sure they remain places where people are proud to own a home.

Over the last 12 years more homes have been purchased and turned into rental properties, we need to make sure all property owners are doing their part. That means keeping yards clean, following city codes, and being respectful of the families who live nearby.

I believe homeowners, renters, and college students can all be good neighbors. We just need to make sure everyone is held to the same standards.

Making Our Streets Safer

One of my biggest priorities is improving the safety of our streets.

The intersection of Barnett Springs and Maple has been a concern for residents for years. With heavy traffic and frequent accidents, I believe it’s time we take a closer look at ways to make this intersection safer, including the possibility of a four-way stop or a roundabout.

I also want to see improvements to our roads, more sidewalks and walking and biking paths. As Ruston continues to grow, we need to make sure our streets are safe for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists and people on scooters.

Some of our roads are maintained by the state rather than the city, but that doesn’t mean we should stop asking for improvements. I’ll work with our state legislators and transportation officials to make sure our concerns are heard.

Building a Healthier Community

I believe Ruston deserves a strong future when it comes to health care.

Having access to a good hospital and quality medical care is important for every family. I want to work with local and state leaders to explore ways we can strengthen health care in our community and make Ruston an even better place to call home.

Go to gogalenturner.com to find out more about my ideas for healthcare in Ruston.

Leadership That Listens

I believe being an alderman is about more than attending meetings and casting votes. It’s about being available, listening, and working hard to solve problems.

I appreciate the people who have served our community over the years, but I also believe there is always room for new ideas, fresh energy, and a different perspective.

I’m not running because I think everything in Ruston is wrong. In fact, I think our city has a lot to be proud of. I’m running because I believe we can build on that success and make sure Ward 5 continues to move forward with Ruston.

I know I won’t have all the answers, and I won’t be able to fix every problem overnight. But I can promise you that I’ll listen, I’ll show up, and I’ll work hard to make sure your voice is heard.

Our Best Days Are Ahead

I believe Ward 5 has so much potential. We have wonderful families, great neighborhoods, a great elementary school and people who truly care about this community.

I want to help build a future where our streets are safer, our neighborhoods are stronger, and more families are excited to call Ward 5 home.

That’s why I’m running for Alderman. Not for a title, but for the opportunity to serve the community that has given me so much.

I’d be honored to earn your vote and your trust. Together, we can make this great community even better. Let’s Keep Moving Ruston Forward!

Galen Turner
Candidate for Alderman, Ward 5

Call or Text: (318) 243-8035

Email: gogalenturner@gmail.com

The above information has been provided by a political campaign. Unless otherwise noted, the Lincoln Parish Journal publishing staff does not endorse specific candidates or ballot measures.