Fighting for Belleville

Jenny Fights For Belleville

Jenny Gain Meyer, the current City Clerk of Belleville and a lifelong resident, has announced her candidacy for Mayor. With a wealth of experience in public service and a deep commitment to her hometown, Meyer aims to lead Belleville toward a future that honors its history while embracing new opportunities for growth and development.“As City Clerk, I have seen firsthand the potential and the challenges that Belleville faces,” said Meyer. “I am running for Mayor because I believe in our community’s strength and opportunities, and I want to work with our city leaders, organizations, businesses, workers, and residents to ensure Belleville is an even better place to live, work and raise their families.”Drawing on her experience at the city level, combined with her deep knowledge of Belleville and the needs of its residents, Meyer has outlined her priorities as Mayor, including:

Revitalizing Neighborhoods and Housing: Recognizing that some residents struggle to maintain their homes due to health, age, or economic reasons, Meyer proposes a community outreach program. This initiative would involve working with local churches, organizations, builders, and residents to create a comprehensive database to provide assistance to residents in need. Meyer also plans to initiate a program focused on rehabilitating housing in Belleville, prioritizing rehabilitation over demolition to help revitalize housing stock and attract new residents.
Strengthening Public Safety: During her previous roles with the City of Belleville and as City Clerk, Meyer has worked closely with the Police and Fire Departments. Her leadership ensured efficient operations and enhanced collaboration among first responders, focusing on the safety and security of all residents. As Mayor, Meyer is committed to continuing this focus on public safety, working closely with law enforcement and fire services to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
Promoting Economic Development: Meyer has a proven track record of bringing business and labor together to accomplish city goals during her tenure as City Clerk. She possesses the background and skills necessary to foster economic growth and job creation in Belleville. As Mayor, she will support local projects and initiatives that employ local talent and stimulate the economy, helping Belleville thrive as a prosperous community.

"My vision for Belleville is one of revitalization and growth,” Meyer noted. “I want to focus on rehabilitating our neighborhoods, supporting our residents through community outreach, and enhancing public safety. I am committed to fostering economic development by bringing businesses and local talent together to create new opportunities. By working closely with the community and city leaders, we can build a stronger, more vibrant Belleville for everyone." Meyer’s tenure as City Clerk has been marked by numerous accomplishments that demonstrate her leadership, dedication, and problem-solving skills:

Infill Ordinance Development: Meyer co-developed the Infill Ordinance, which the current administration uses to integrate new housing into existing neighborhoods. This ordinance supports sustainable growth while preserving the unique character of Belleville’s communities.
Streamlined Event Approval Process: Meyer created an event approval process that fosters coordination between event organizers and city staff, ensuring events such as parades, picnics, Oktoberfest, and the Chili Cook-Off are well-organized and showcase Belleville's community spirit.
Strong Communication and Listening Skills: Known for her strong communication skills, Meyer regularly engages with residents, elected officials, and city employees to address community needs and foster effective governance. Her ability to listen attentively and think creatively has earned her a reputation as a collaborative leader who is dedicated to resolving issues and improving city services.

“Communication and collaboration are the cornerstones of a strong city. By listening to our residents and working together, we can achieve great things for Belleville,” said Meyer. "I have worked closely with our community, from overseeing essential city operations to actively leading and participating in local organizations and events. I am committed to fostering collaboration, transparency, and growth for our city and its residents. Belleville is my home, and I am ready to serve and uplift our community as its Mayor."Prior to her election as Belleville City Clerk, Meyer served as the Director of Environmental Programs at the St. Clair County Health Department and previously oversaw various departments at the City of Belleville. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from McKendree University and a master’s degree in health administration from Lindenwood University.