Jimmy Houston Letter
In the 36 years I’ve been a professional law enforcement officer, I’ve served in three cities for five mayors. I’ve been fortunate to have worked with, and for, some of the finest individuals in Mississippi. It is because of those experiences in which I’ve seen the impact of a city’s mayor on a police department and, ultimately, on the public that I am endorsing Mayor Gene McGee in his campaign for re-election.
I am fortunate to serve the citizens of Ridgeland as Chief of Police; a position I’ve held since 2002. While I am responsible for the men and women who serve so capably, the leadership that Mayor McGee provides to all department heads is exemplary, and every employee of City of Ridgeland is aware of his uncompromising commitment to excellence.
Mayor McGee is the most aggressive mayor for whom I’ve worked. It is because of the way he lives his life that citizens know that he is truly a law-abiding citizen and they respect the example he sets. He is adamant about assuring that the residents and businesses of Ridgeland are protected and that we remain always vigilant regarding crime. In fact he has stated frequently that, “One crime is too many.” On occasion, he has been known to get out of his car to pick-up litter that has been dropped and hand it back to the litterer! While demanding top performance from the Police Department, he is also generous and sincere about supporting us and in recognizing individual and department accomplishments.
Without a doubt, Mayor McGee is the most professional Mayor with whom I’ve worked. Weekly meetings with department heads assure that he knows what is happening within every facet of the city. And, department heads understand that he is to be called if there is an issue of concern—especially crime issues—day or night. It is his vision for our city that entails a comprehensive blend of business and community that is admired by the department heads and employees.
A man of true character, Mayor McGee practices what he preaches in life. I’m proud to have such an outstanding role model for my staff and myself. It is because of his unquestionable integrity that he expects the same from every employee of the city. A proud and devoted husband, father and grandfather, the value that he places on his family is obvious. And the respect he shows to employees and their families is as well. The commitment he has to assuring that Ridgeland offers an excellent quality-of-life is based on having lived his entire married life—38 years—and having reared his children here.
It is my belief that the citizens of Ridgeland would be well served by re-electing Mayor Gene McGee. One has only to look at the amazing growth and progress that have occurred under his leadership to understand his commitment to excellence. I’m proud to work for such a fine man, I am proud that he is my boss and I’m proud that he is my mayor.