LINN — Bill Wirtel, 62, seeking election in the April 7 municipal race, said his decision to run for the Linn Board of Aldermen is rooted in both his professional background and his commitment to the community he now calls home.

“Linn is a great little city, and I have settled here for life,” Wirtel said. “I have a wealth of personal and professional experience that I will use to bring practical, common-sense solutions to improve our city and quality of life. I have fresh ideas and the skill set to advocate for them. My goal as an alderman is to embrace our rural strengths and propose improvements to make Linn an even better place to live.”

Wirtel moved to Linn in 2020 and said his connection to the community has continued to grow, both as a resident and as a parent. He is a full-time single father raising his 10-year-old son, a fourth-grader at Linn Elementary, and also has an adult son living and working in Jefferson City.

“I want Linn to continue to be a safe, affordable, and welcoming place for families like mine,” Wirtel said. “My son is growing up here, and I take that responsibility seriously when I think about the future of this city.”

Wirtel retired from the state of Missouri in 2020 following a 33-year career that included work in statewide service programs, budgeting, grant writing and administration, training development, and legislative analysis. He said those experiences shaped his approach to decision-making and public service.

“I’ve spent my career working within systems that require accountability, careful budgeting, and long-term planning,” Wirtel said. “You learn quickly that every decision has consequences, and it’s important to understand how policies affect real people.”

He added that his background in grant writing and program administration could help the city identify and secure additional funding opportunities.

“There are resources available, but you have to know where to look and how to apply for them,” said Wirtel. “I believe my experience can help Linn pursue opportunities that support infrastructure, services, and long-term growth without placing unnecessary burden on taxpayers.”

Wirtel said one of his priorities is maintaining the strengths Linn already has while identifying areas for improvement.

“We have a strong sense of community here, and that’s something worth protecting,” he said. “At the same time, there are always ways to improve how we operate, whether that’s infrastructure, communication, or long-term planning.”

He also emphasized the importance of listening to residents and encouraging greater community involvement.

“I want to hear from people,” said Wirtel. “Good decisions come from understanding the needs and concerns of the community, not just making assumptions. I think it’s important for citizens to feel like they have a voice and that their input matters.”

Wirtel said he would approach the role with a focus on practical solutions and steady leadership. “I’m not coming in with unrealistic promises,” he added. “I believe in doing the work, asking the right questions, and making thoughtful decisions that serve the best interests of Linn.”

As election day approaches, Wirtel said his message to voters is straightforward.

“I care about this community, and I want to contribute in a meaningful way,” Wirtel said. “If elected, I will bring experience, common sense, and a willingness to listen and work with others to move Linn forward.”