A second candidate has announced a run for Bloomington's Ward 8 on the southeast side.
Jeff Crabill, a corporate lawyer for State Farm, described himself as a progressive.
"I am part of the Democratic Party. I have been involved in social justice issues. But I have also been involved in business. And I like to see myself as someone that can bridge that divide," said Crabill.
Crabill said he was involved in advocating for a Welcoming City ordinance in Bloomington.
Crabill said he does not favor incentive packages to bring in new businesses to town, but does want the city to invest more in small-business development within Bloomington.
"Right now the Small Business Development Center is understaffed. They could probably use a couple more staff members. They are having a lot of businesses that want their resources," said Crabill.
Crabill said he thinks the city should go ahead with a major library expansion, though he wants to talk to people in Ward 8 first.
Diana Hauman currently represents Ward 8 on the Bloomington City Council, but she's not seeking re-election in April 2019.
Crabill announced his candidacy Monday at El Toro Restaurant on the southeast side of town as a symbol of the small businesses he wants to support and stimulate.
GOP County Board member Josh Barnett is also running in Ward 8.
“It is always great to see new faces who want to get involved," Barnett said Monday. "I look forward to hearing how Jeff has been involved in the community and his plans for Bloomington and specifically the people of Ward 8."
Crabill said he has been part of the Multicultural Leadership Program and Bloomington 101.
Craybill said he has lived in the Twin Cities for six years. He said he has been married for 21 years and has two children.
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