Deb Whitfield for Lawrence Mayor

Deb Whitfield is running for Mayor to bring more growth and economic opportunities to Lawrence, work with public safety officials to keep our city safe, and make city spending more equitable so that we can effectively serve all of Lawrence—no matter your neighborhood or income. 

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“I have lived in Lawrence for nearly 30 years. I’ve raised my children here and I care deeply about our city and its future. We have so many opportunities in our city—it’s time to come together and work hard to achieve our goals.
That’s what I will do as Mayor.”
— Deborah Whitfield

<img src="https://media.designedtorun.com/9dde9df2-6993-417f-a038-bd6d3badde33/1673938994702-debstage-.png" alt="" title="right-50" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="right" variant="framed"><h2>Mother, Grandmother, Common Councilmember, Volunteer, Respiratory Therapist and Healthcare Leader</h2>Deb and her late husband moved to Lawrence almost 30 years ago and raised their children in Lawrence Township&nbsp;schools. She has worked her entire career for Community Health Network, first as a respiratory therapist and currently as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She has a long&nbsp;a record of expanding services and care to diverse populations across&nbsp;Marion County.Deb was inspired to run for local office after volunteering for Democratic campaigns during and after the 2016 election. She was&nbsp;elected to the Lawrence Common Council At-Large in 2019 and serves as Chair of the Public Safety Committee.Deb currently serves&nbsp;as a Board Member at The Boys &amp; Girls Club of Greater Indianapolis and the Fort Benjamin Harrison YMCA.&nbsp;She is also a member of The Links, Inc. and a former Board Member of Martin University.&nbsp;Deb's priorities as Mayor include bringing more growth and economic opportunities to Lawrence, working with public safety officials to keep our city safe, and making city spending more equitable so that we can effectively serve all of Lawrence—no matter your neighborhood or income.&nbsp;

Lawrence is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. And I think we can do even better. It’s time we use our diversity, our proximity to Indianapolis, and our top-rated schools to move our city forward with better quality of life, higher paying jobs, and more growth opportunities for our citizens.

<h3>Fighting for Our Community</h3>These are some of the top issues our campaign is focused on. Learn more about our issues <a href="/issues" target="" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">here</a>.

Deb’s Priorities

Deb has always supported law enforcement to build a safer Lawrence. On the Council, she voted for our public safety departments to get the resources they need to keep us safe. As Mayor, Deb will make the most of the city’s public safety resources to tackle youth violence prevention, to better assist people on probation and leaving jail, &amp; improve faith in our justice system to better solve crime.

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A Safer & More Secure City

Deb will place a renewed focus on the neighborhoods of Lawrence, making sure that the entire city is being taken care of with infrastructure repairs. A recent fair housing report found that while 64% of white families in Marion County own their home compared to only 34% for African Americans and 39% for Hispanics. We must do better to pass on wealth to the next generation.&nbsp;

Equity for Our Neighborhoods

Since the 1990s, the city of Lawrence has doubled in size to just over 50,000 residents.&nbsp;One of Lawrence's great strengths is its diversity. For our city to continue to grow and thrive, we must seek out new job opportunities and transit options for our residents. As Mayor, Deb will work to attract new, inclusive development and help our small businesses grow and succeed.

More Growth Opportunities for Lawrence

To build the best Lawrence possible, we must ALL have opportunities to succeed. That's why Deb will use all the tools of the mayor’s office to serve everyone, no matter your neighborhood or income.

A United City

It’s time for new leadership in Lawrence. Join our team today and help us take our city to the next level.

<h3>Contribute now to support our campaign!</h3>

We thank the IN/KY/OH Regional Council of Carpenters and LiUNA (Laborers) Local 120 for their support!

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Dozens of local organizations and leaders are standing together!

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Deb has the experience and vision to lead our city forward.

An Experienced & Compassionate Leader

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I want to use my experience and my passion for public service to take the city of Lawrence to the next level as your Mayor.

Donate now to help us build a better Lawrence.

Grassroots action is the key to getting Deb elected. Will you give some of your time for our effort? We’ll be coordinating door knocking and voter registration events across Lawrence to help candidates this fall. Sign up using the form here.

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“I’m running for Mayor to serve all of Lawrence. I will work to bring new economic development projects &amp; jobs to our city, support public safety so that Lawrence can be the best place to live and raise a family in Central Indiana, and put a renewed focus on our neighborhoods, so that parts of Lawrence that have been neglected by past administrations receive the same opportunities and resources needed to thrive in our community.”

Our campaign is working overtime to deliver a better Lawrence for our friends and neighbors. See what we’ve been up to below and join Team Deb today.

Latest Updates from the Campaign Trail

LAWRENCE, Indiana — We are now just five weeks away from Election Day. In Marion County, there are several key seats up for grabs. That’s why 13News is looking at the issues impacting you the most and the people wanting to help.Tonight, our “Decision 2023 in Marion County” series takes you to the city of Lawrence and looks at the challenges facing the growing community.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.wthr.com/article/news/politics/elections/decision-2023/lawrence-mayoral-candidates-dave-hofmann-deborah-whitfield-decision-2023-in-marion-county/531-be7015fa-da91-47de-81aa-671872a290b9">Watch the video here.</a>

We are now just five weeks away from Election Day. In Marion County, there are several key seats up for grabs. That’s why <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.wthr.com/article/news/politics/elections/decision-2023/whats-at-stake-2023-marion-county-election-indianapolis-indiana-voting-issues/531-e59a5fb9-59bd-4bea-89ae-7d96d557f29c">13News is looking at the issues</a> impacting you the most and the people wanting to help.Tonight, our “Decision 2023 in Marion County” series takes you to the city of Lawrence and looks at the challenges facing the growing community.&nbsp;

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Deb Whitfield on WTHR

The two candidates for City of Lawrence mayor faced each other and a variety of questions during a candidate forum Sept. 25 at the Lawrence Central High School auditorium.Republican David Hofmann and Democrat Deb Whitfield took turns answering questions posed by moderator Eric Halvorson in front of a live audience gathered for the one-hour discussion.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=980534716551648">Watch the debate here</a>.

Lawrence mayoral candidates debate

The Lawrence Common Council approved an ordinance March 22 establishing a new set of rules for contractors who bid on city-funded projects.
The ordinance, submitted by Deb Whitfield, cites a desire to “enhance (the city’s) ability to identify responsive and responsible bidders on all city public works construction projects by institution of more comprehensive submission requirements.”
The new rules apply to contracts of $150,000 or more. Among the requirements, a bidder must submit:
<ul>
<li>A statement made under oath including state online records showing it is current with its reports and is eligible for a certificate of good standing</li>
<li>A list identifying all former business names</li>
<li>Any prior violations of state, local or federal laws</li>
<li>Staffing capabilities, including labor sources, participation in registered apprenticeship and training programs</li>
<li>A plan for drug testing</li>
<li>A list of project managers and superintendents who will work on the project</li>
<li>Proof of licensing and disclosure of any suspension or revocation within the last five years</li>
<li>Evidence of a surety company</li>
<li>Statement of any tax liens within the previous five years</li>
<li>A statement that anyone working on the project will be properly classified as an employee or independent contractor, and</li>
<li>A list of similar projects worked on within the past three years</li>
</ul>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youarecurrent.com/2023/03/23/new-rules-approved-for-lawrence-project-bidders/">Read the full article on the Current’s website.</a>

The Lawrence Common Council approved an ordinance March 22 establishing a new set of rules for contractors who bid on city-funded projects.
The ordinance, submitted by Deb Whitfield, cites a desire to “enhance (the city’s) ability to identify responsive and responsible bidders on all city public works construction projects by institution of more comprehensive submission requirements.”

New rules approved for Lawrence project bidders

For Deb Whitfield, it’s&nbsp;time to take her passion for the City of Lawrence to the next level by running for mayor.
Whitfield, who has lived in Lawrence for nearly 30 years, is running in the May 2 Democratic primary against fellow Lawrence Common Council at-large member Shawn Denney.
“I have lived in Lawrence for nearly 30 years,” Whitfield said. “I raised my children here, and I care deeply about our city and its future. For 27 years, I devoted my career to developing strong leadership within the health care industry in central Indiana. It’s time for Lawrence to use our diversity, our proximity to Indianapolis and our top-rated schools to move our city forward with better quality of life, higher paying jobs and more growth opportunities for our citizens.”
Whitfield, who was elected to the common council in 2018, said the key issues for Lawrence residents are to maintain&nbsp;a high level of public safety, to expand economic opportunities and to improve quality of life through more arts, nature and entertainment options.
“I envision a united city, a safe and secure place to live and work, with equitable neighborhoods flourishing with new opportunities for citizens in all parts of our city,” Whitfield said. “My campaign for mayor will focus on bringing new economic development projects and jobs to the city, supporting public safety so that Lawrence can be the best place to live and raise a family in central Indiana, and putting a renewed focus on our neighborhoods, so that all parts of Lawrence receive the same opportunities and resources needed to thrive in our community.”
<a target="_blank" href="https://youarecurrent.com/2023/02/19/whitfield-sets-for-vision-for-lawrence/">Read the entire article on the Current’s website.</a>

“I have lived in Lawrence for nearly 30 years,” Whitfield said. “I raised my children here, and I care deeply about our city and its future. For 27 years, I devoted my career to developing strong leadership within the health care industry in central Indiana. It’s time for Lawrence to use our diversity, our proximity to Indianapolis and our top-rated schools to move our city forward with better quality of life, higher paying jobs and more growth opportunities for our citizens.”

Whitfield sets vision for Lawrence

<img src="https://media.designedtorun.com/9dde9df2-6993-417f-a038-bd6d3badde33/1673943738026-325994716_726747812419628_7482180439080908677_n-.jpg" alt="" title="right-50" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="right" variant="framed">
Lawrence Common Councilmember and Candidate for Mayor took part in the MLK Jr. Day Celebration at Lawrence United Methodist Church on Monday evening.
Deb was joined by Pastor Kimberly Tyler, State Rep. John Bartlett, and many others as they celebrated Dr. King’s vision for a brighter and more just future.

Lawrence Common Councilmember and Candidate for Mayor took part in the MLK Jr. Day Celebration at Lawrence United Methodist Church on Monday evening.
Deb was joined by Pastor Kimberly Tyler, State Rep. John Bartlett, and many others as they celebrated Dr. King’s vision for a brighter and more just future.

Deborah Whitfield Speaks at MLK Jr. Day Celebration

Today, Lawrence Common Councilmember At-Large Deborah Whitfield filed paperwork to run to be the next Mayor of Lawrence. If elected, she will be the first African-American Mayor in the city’s history. &nbsp; “For twenty-seven years I have devoted my career to developing strong leadership within the healthcare industry in central Indiana. Four years ago, through the encouragement and support of my neighbors, I joined the Lawrence Common Council,” Whitfield said. “Now, I want to use that experience and my passion for public service to take the city of Lawrence to the next level as your Mayor.” &nbsp; Whitfield’s campaign will focus on bringing new economic development projects and jobs to the city, supporting public safety so that Lawrence can be the best place to live and raise a family in Central Indiana, and putting a renewed focus on our neighborhoods, so that parts of Lawrence that have been neglected by past administrations receive the same opportunities and resources needed to thrive in our community. &nbsp; “I have lived in Lawrence for nearly 30 years. I’ve raised my children here and I care deeply about our city and its future. We have so many opportunities in the city of Lawrence—it’s time to come together and work hard to achieve our collective goals. That’s what I will do as Mayor.” &nbsp; Whitfield has already received an outpouring of support from community leaders and elected officials, including State Reps. Carey Hamilton, Cherrish Pryor, and John Bartlett, State Sen. Jean Breaux, Lawrence Twp. Constable Terry Burns, Lawrence Twp. Trustee Steve Talley, as well as Indianapolis City-County Councillors Vop Osili, Maggie Lewis, Keith Graves, and Ali Brown, among others. &nbsp; In addition to serving as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Community Health Network, Deb is also a Board Member at The Boys &amp; Girls Club of Greater Indianapolis and the Fort Benjamin Harrison YMCA. She is also a member of The Links, Inc., a former Board Member of Martin University and an alumni of Hoosier Women Forward.

“For twenty-seven years I have devoted my career to developing strong leadership within the healthcare industry in central Indiana. Four years ago, through the encouragement and support of my neighbors, I joined the Lawrence Common Council,” Whitfield said. “Now, I want to use that experience and my passion for public service to take the city of Lawrence to the next level as your Mayor.”

Deb Whitfield Files to Run for Mayor of Lawrence

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Endorsements

MARION CO. PROSECUTOR

Ryan Mears

MAYOR OF INDIANAPOLIS

Joe Hogsett

PRESIDENT, INDY COUNCIL

Vop Osili

STATE SENATOR

Jean Breaux

Fady Qaddoura

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Carey Hamilton

Victoria Garcia Wilburn

LAWRENCE TWP TRUSTEE

Steve Talley

LAWRENCE TWP CONSTABLE

Terry Burns

INDY COUNCIL

Maggie Lewis

Ali Brown

Keith Graves

LAWRENCE COUNCIL

Sherron Freeman

president, Lawrence twp advisory board

Fred Freeman

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Deb Whitfield

Please join us on January 1 for the swearing-in of Mayor Deborah Whitfield, City Clerk Leatrice Adkisson, and the Lawrence Common Council. Details below! https://t.co/46KwJFZINO

We are grateful nobody was hurt in tonight's incident at Lawrence Central High School. Thank you to our Lawrence Police Department for their quick response to this incident. https://t.co/pESSvgbu0y

Thank you to all of the brave men and women that have served and continue to serve our country. #VeteransDay https://t.co/snCOvFd6yh

Thank you, Lawrence. I promise to do my best to serve every citizen of this great city as your Mayor. Tonight we celebrate, tomorrow we get to work. #ilovelawrence https://t.co/TXI0XnrSsX

Polls are open! Make sure to cast your vote today from 6am-6pm for a better Lawrence!

Find your nearest polling site at https://t.co/jJh5xp3syB https://t.co/Lg32GGGxf3