John Whelihan finished the term of his late father on the council in 2009 and is now on the charter study panel.
John G. WhelihanHOLYOKE – John G. Whelihan, a former city councilor, said he will run for City Council in the fall election.
Whelihan, 45, said he will seek an at-large seat on the council. All terms are two years.
“As I announce my candidacy for the Holyoke City Council, I do so knowing full well the challenges that lie ahead for our great city. However, I’m a firm believer that Holyoke’s attributes make it a city where one can reside and prosper,” Whelihan wrote in an e-mailed statement.
The City Council in May 2009 appointed Whelihan to finish the term of his father, John E. Whelihan, who died May 6, 2009 at the age of 70. The elder Whelihan had been on the City Council for 32 of the previous 40 years.
Instead of running to keep the seat, John G. Whelihan was elected to a commission studying and recommending changes in the city charter.
Whelihan is employed as director of assessments for the town of Belchertown.
Financial accountability will be a focus if he is elected, Whelihan said.
“Due to the economic downturn in the national and state economies, municipal management has become even more vital to the local budget process. As a city councilor, I will strive to protect our local tax dollars from unwise policy decisions and unnecessary spending,” Whelihan said.
“As I campaign throughout the city, I will seek input and suggestions from the residents regarding the specific issues they consider paramount to Holyoke’s future,” Whelihan said.
The City Council has 15 members, consisting of eight at large and seven from wards.
Election day is Nov. 8.