Please tell us about yourself:
I grew up in Bethesda, MD and have lived in Decatur since 2005. I am in my 16th year as a biology professor at Millikin University. During my time at Millikin, I have created a research laboratory with a national reputation and am one of the co-founders of the university’s Institute for Science Entrepreneurship. My life partner is Mary Garrison. Mary is a Professor of Social Work at Millikin University. We live in Decatur’s west end. It has been my honor and privilege to serve as a member of the Decatur City Council since May 2017. I serve as an independent voice and as someone that is evidence-based and data-driven. I am running for re-election because I care deeply about the well-being of the 70,000 residents that live here. I want to see a city that is more livable, vibrant, healthy, and safe.
Please list any endorsements:
I am proud to be endorsed for re-election by the Decatur Trades & Labor Assembly, AFL-CIO.
What do you believe is the role of a Decatur City Council member? :
Members of the city council and mayor are the legislative body for the City of Decatur. For example, the city council was responsible for passing local laws that protect the health of our citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic. The most important document we pass each year is the budget, and throughout the year, city council members approve the expenses of the municipality. The 2021 budget includes $71.55 million in general fund spending including money for police, fire, public works, and economic and community development. In addition to their legislative role, city council members routinely respond to citizen and business requests for help and connect them with the appropriate city personnel to address their needs. As a council member, I am strongly committed to providing timely information on topics to be discussed at council meetings and my views on city issues through social media. I can always be reached at 217-358-5003 and djhorn@decaturil.gov.
Please tell us your platform and key areas of focus for the Decatur City Council:
Currently, and after I am re-elected, my top three priorities are public safety, job creation, and neighborhood revitalization. The most immediate need for our city is to overcome the health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Macon County has the highest per capita death rate and highest per capita number of cases of COVID-19 of any county in central Illinois containing a mid-sized city. Furthermore, Decatur’s unemployment is considered among the 25 worst in the U.S. as a result of the pandemic. As Decatur recovers and overcomes the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be essential to protect public health, provide help to those in need, and restore jobs that have been lost.
Website and Horn For Decatur on Facebook
