Candidate Q&A: James, McCrate vying for position on Portageville Board of Alderman

Editor’s note: The Standard Democrat will be running a series of local candidate Q&As before the June 2 election.

Jessie James and Denis McCrate are vying for the alderman position in Ward 1 of the Portageville Board of Alderman in the June 2 election. The following is a Q&A with each candidate.

Describe your background:

James: I have lived in Portageville all my life – 76 years. I worked at the Shell station for 15-16 years. Then I got my own business, running a liquor store. I had a family of four kids.

McCrate: My grandfather came to Portageville in 1910, started a business, and got involved with the city as mayor in 1937. From this date, my family has been involved in the city. I farmed from 1978 to 2000. Following farming, I worked for the University of Missouri Fisher Delta Research Center until I retired in 2018. I now support J&M Priggel Farms, go to St. Eustachius Catholic Church and am a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 1593. I was also involved with the Jaycee’s for 10 years.

What do you think the biggest issue the council is likely to face during your term if elected?

James: I think follow-up on the drainage ditch. It was dug but it wasn’t dug properly. We are currently going through a lawsuit. I hope we can come to some kind of conclusion to get things done.

McCrate: One of the biggest issues the council is likely to face is balancing the city budget with city income. Another issue would be improving infrastructure.

What issues do you think are the most important to Portageville?

James: The sewer. The contractors failed to complete the job correctly. I want to try and work with the contractors to get the job done right.

McCrate: It is important to keep the city’s infrastructure in good repair including the streets, water plant, sewer and storm drains. It is also important for the city of Portageville to have leadership that is focused on trying to attract new businesses.

If elected, what are your goals?

James: To work faithfully with the people. I can be a help to them when they want things done.

McCrate: If elected, I would plan to work for the citizens of Portageville, Missouri and keep the city in the best shape possible. In addition, I would work to attract more businesses and citizens.

Why should the voters pick you?

James: I think voters should vote for me because I’ve been faithful. If someone comes to me with a problem, I try to solve it. I have them come to the meeting and try to get things taken care of. I’ve worked with the fire department and the water department. Everyone knows me and I just want to do good in the community.

McCrate: I have the knowledge and experience to best help the city of Portageville. I have been involved with the city starting in 1981 as an alderman and since served two terms as mayor. I am the most qualified candidate for this position.