My name is Ed Pinero and I humbly ask for your vote and support for mayor of Picayune.

Picayune is in a unique time in its history, a time that requires a fresh new approach. This new approach will bring Picayune back together. We must serve our community as a team of public servants, not as individuals. I have a strong vision for our community and this is why I am proud to announce my candidacy for mayor of Picayune.

With your vote and support we can implement the much needed change that our community deserves. Together we can put Picayune back on the road to success. As mayor of Picayune, I will focus my attention and leadership on several key areas: Improving city finances; repairing roads and drainage; full support of the police and fire departments; full support of all city employees; implementing transparency in city government, and focusing on economic development projects.

My experiences as the director of Planning and Development and as Picayune city manager have shown me the importance of having unity amongst city and county officials. This unity allows for the efficient operation of government operations and gives much needed leverage when requesting federal support. In addition, I understand directly the issues that our city employees face. I have a clear understanding of the tough challenges that lie ahead and I am ready to meet those challenges.

I hold a Ph.D. in International Development from the University of Southern Mississippi, an MBA From Mississippi State and a BA in Management from the University of Southern Mississippi. In addition, I am a proud graduate of Picayune Memorial High School.

During my professional career I have focused on economic development and helping local governments grow and prosper. I am currently the director of Planning and Development for Pearl River County. I am the former city manager of Picayune. Prior to these positions, I spent 14 years at the University of Southern Mississippi, holding the positions of Business Development specialist, vice president for the Mississippi Enterprise for Technology and director of Operations for the Mississippi Manufacturing Extension.

My credentials and qualifications are clear and proven. Each experience has provided me with a unique sense and understanding of how effective leadership is a clear pathway to success.

My loyalty and sense of service to Picayune runs deep inside the person that I am today. I was raised in Picayune; my family lives, invests and works in Picayune. My wife, Christie Barfield Pinero is an employee of the Picayune Municipal Separate School District. My daughter Alyssa is a student in the Picayune school system. My family and I attend First Baptist Church in Picayune.

My mother, Tina Pierce is the owner of Past and Presents in downtown Picayune. My father Edward Pinero Sr. works in Picayune and his wife Sue is retired from the Picayune school system.

As you can see, my entire family is committed to the success of our fine city. My roots here are deep and filled with fond memories. Today I am asking for your vote and support so that together we can add to those memories and create new opportunities for all citizens of our community.

It is time for a fresh, new approach, please vote for Ed Pinero for mayor in the upcoming Republican Primary. Thank you for your support.