With the June primary only four months away, two Franklin County residents have stepped forward and announced their candidacy for probate judge of Franklin County, both on the Republican ballot. One of those men is Russellville Fire Chief Joe Mansell.

Mansell has lived in Franklin County his entire life and has worked for the City of Russellville with the fire department for 26 years.

“After much prayer and support from family and friends, I feel that this is the right time to announce my candidacy,” Mansell said.

He said his intent in running against current probate judge Barry Moore is not to cause strife or discord.

“Too often the election process tends to divide us on our differences instead of uniting us on our common beliefs. Let us not forget that our main goal is to secure a brighter future for the citizens of Franklin County,” Mansell said.

Keeping Franklin County safe, educated and prosperous is Mansell’s goal. He has declared to make sure that every Franklin County citizen is safe from crime, fire or other emergencies.

“I will work closely with the sheriff and fire departments to make sure they have the tools and funding necessary to carry out their duties,” he said.

Mansell has three children – Connor, 21, Caleb, 20, Sarah, 12 – with wife Shae Quinn Mansell. He said he believes in the importance of educating children to be the best future leaders they can be.

“I will work closely with our superintendents to make sure our kids have the opportunity for the best education and safest environment possible,” he said.

Workforce and industry have become increasingly important topics, not only in the world but especially in Franklin County, and Mansell said he will work hard to attract new industry but also work just as hard with the companies already extablished in Franklin County.

“We must have a strong infrastructure to be able to attract new industry to this county. I will work closely with all of the mayors and councils in the county to ensure that all of the needs of our citizens are addressed,” Mansell said.

When he was deciding to run, Mansell said he often thought of America’s forefathers, who fought for the freedom of the common man to run for public office. He said it would be an honor and a privilege to serve Franklin County.