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Date: 12/6/2022
SPRINGFIELD – City Councilor At-Large Justin Hurst announced his candidacy for the 2023 mayoral election in a Nov. 30 press release.
Hurst, a graduate of Springfield Public Schools who also received a Bachelor of Arts degree at University of Virginia and a juris doctor degree from Western New England University, is the first candidate to formally announce his mayoral bid. He also worked for 10 years as an administrator for Springfield Public Schools before starting his own business.
Hurst lives in Sixteen Acres alongside his wife, School Committee at-large representative Denise Hurst, and two children. Among his community endeavors, Hurst is a participant in Mason Square C-3 meetings, a member of the Juneteenth Jubilee Committee and a participant in the Arrha Credit Union board.
Hurst has been a City Councilor since 2013. During his tenure, he received unanimous support from his peers to serve as the City Council president in 2019 and 2020.
In his press release, Hurst detailed the motives behind his Springfield mayoral bid.
“After talking to my family, we all agreed that we want to see Springfield grow into a first-class city; a city that is bold and innovative, and this demands a change agent with a vision. Our city deserves a forward-thinking leader who will meet the moment and will continue to listen and talk with the residents of Springfield to determine, how together, we can create and have a government that works for ALL of Springfield,” said Hurst.
Hurst stressed his commitment to transparency, accountability and social and economic justice as core campaign values. He views these pillars as key concepts for improving the city.
“The city is at a critical point where it can continue to expand along with our state or fall short of its potential. Today, we see far too many people are being left behind with no hope of a better future. I have a proven track record of being an innovative leader with vision and a forward-thinking elected official who understands that inclusion and equity are assets,” said Hurst.
Several of Hurst’s talking points as a City Councilor were highlighted in his mayoral announcement, including supporting the operation of the newly adopted Police Commission.
“[Hurst] vows to ensure that the newly formed Police Commission retains all powers granted to the commission in the city ordinance,” said Hurst via press release.
Additionally, Hurst continues to be vocal about his vision for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which were awarded to communities as a tool for addressing lingering ramifications from the coronavirus pandemic. Hurst believes that ARPA funds should focus on small business and nonprofit ventures, as well as economically disadvantaged residents.
“Hurst will also make certain that the remainder of the monies from [ARPA] are invested in residents struggling to make ends meet, new businesses, small business and nonprofits outside of downtown, and free transportation among other pertinent issues to the city of Springfield,” said Hurst via press release.
Hurst concluded his announcement by detailing his vision if elected to office.
“I am running to improve the lives of our residents and exercise influence over the future of our great city. It is more important than ever that our next mayor be committed to accountability, justice and change,” said Hurst via press release.
Hurst, continued, “I will work in partnership with residents, community stakeholders and the business community to create an inclusive vision that will have a positive impact for every community and resident in Springfield.”
The 2023 mayoral election is expected to feature several local candidates, including incumbent Mayor Domenic Sarno. Sarno is the longest-tenured mayor in Springfield’s history, serving in the leadership position since 2007.