Jackson Free Press

Family is a running theme for the Rev. John Taylor Jr. The 29-year-old candidate for the Ward 3 City Council seat believes a lot of Jackson's problems start with fathers who don't take responsibility.

"I just feel the city of Jackson is in a state of emergency--young men walking around uneducated, with no fathers in the homes," he said. "All they know is to sell drugs and hustle. If they can put the street mentality into starting their own businesses, we'll see more millionaires and CEOs of companies."

Taylor is running for the Ward 3 seat to replace Kenneth Stokes, who left the City Council to serve on the Hinds County Board of Supervisors. Stokes had been a fixture on the council since 1989. While Taylor agrees with some of Stokes' issues, such as setting a curfew for minors, he distinguishes himself from the long-time councilman in other ways, such as by promising to attend council work sessions.

"I'm not going to be so blunt in my approach," he said. "Everyone is different. Councilman Stokes has served the people in his ward well, but everyone is different. I'm a young man, and I think it's time for someone (new) to have a chance."

The special election to fill the Ward 3 seat is set for Feb. 14. So far, two other candidates--LaRita Cooper-Stokes and Albert Wilson--have said they will run.

Taylor grew up in Jackson, where he graduated from Lanier High School and attended Belhaven University. Just a few weeks ago, on Christmas Day, he married Sher'wana Haralson. As a child, Taylor was adopted, and he has now adopted five children.

Taylor also volunteers with many community organizations, including a daycare, and wants to put more funding toward after-school programs such as the Boys and Girls Clubs. He founded the Frank E. Melton Senior Citizens Thanksgiving Dinner and wants to expand the Meals on Wheels program. He also wants to start a program to help felons find jobs when they get out of prison.

"They are forgotten in society; a felon can't stand a chance," he said. "I think this would deter a lot of crime in Jackson if we try to put some of these people to work."