A New Chapter for Jasper: Craig Begins Mayoral Term with Focus on Community, Growth, and Trust

Jasper looks to the future as new mayor Ryan Craig takes office. As the proceedings began, Craig’s children, Millie and Charlie, led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. Dubois County Clerk Amy Kippenbrock guided the proceedings, welcoming the group to the special inauguration ceremony. She emphasized that the mayor’s selection followed rigorous deliberation by the caucus and expressed gratitude to Craig for stepping forward to shoulder such a significant responsibility. “As we move ahead, let us remain focused on what unites us – a commitment to strong communities, responsible governments, and opportunities for every citizen to thrive.”

Clerk-Treasurer Kiersten Knies administered the Oath of Office as Craig stood before the attendees, surrounded by his children and his wife, Whitney. In his comments following the swearing in, Craig thanked outgoing Mayor Dean Vonderheide for the years of dedicated service that he has given to the city and for his leadership and guidance during this transition.

He continued, “Jasper is a special place. It is a community built on hard work, strong values, and people who genuinely care about their neighbors and their future. That spirit is what makes this city such a great place to live, work, and raise our families. I’m grateful for the trust that has been placed in me, and I do not take that responsibility lightly.”

Afterward, Craig’s wife, Whitney, emphasized her husband’s focus on hearing what is important to the community: “I think it will be good for the city, because whatever comes at him, and he’s passionate about, he’s going to dive right in. And even if he didn’t bring the passion and somebody else brings it, he’s going to hear them and look into it.”

Mayor Craig was kind enough to speak with WITZ about his plans for the city. “Right now, we’re working on our strategic plan, which is great, and then we’re going to send some things out to the public, on our comprehensive plan, to be able to come in and give their input. So really what we’re building is our road map, right now, of where we see us going.”

As part of that roadmap, the mayor’s focus is on the quality of life in Jasper and engaging community feedback. Speaking about one of the identified public concerns, Craig said, “I know the soccer fields are on there, which is a great mission for everyone. I think that soccer is a major need for this community. I would love to find us some fields and really work with this program to get it up and running. I think that’s our major economic development right there… So I’m putting some emphasis on that. We just created a Soccer Field account through the city so we can get donations and we can start this process. We’re in the beginning stage, but it’s also on our strategic plan. Our strategic plan will be my map to follow, and the strategic plan comes from the citizens. So, when the email and the things come out for the strategic plan, that’s why it’s important for everyone to fill them out.”

The new mayor said community input will play a key role in every step ahead, as the city works to turn its roadmap into a future shaped by the people of Jasper. It was a line from his speech, however, that offered the best path for the growing city facing both challenges and opportunities: “As mayor, my focus will be simple. Continue the momentum we have built, work collaboratively with the Council and community partners, and always be mindful that we are stewards of the trust and the resources given to us by the people of Jasper.”

For more information on these and other updates, visit www.witzamfm.com/news

- Drew Hasselbring