Lead with Heart. Serve with Purpose
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Lead with Heart. Serve with Purpose *
Meet Derek Jones – A Voice for Unity and Progress in Bristol
Hi, I’m Derek Jones, and I’m seeking candidacy to run for Mayor of Bristol as an independent voice for the people. I’m looking for passionate individuals who believe in a future built on unity, progress, and real community empowerment. Bristol is my hometown. I was born here and, like many others, faced deep challenges growing up. I experienced poverty, lived in Bristol shelters, and didn’t meet my father until I was 15 years old. Because I moved often, I attended nearly every school in Bristol, giving me a firsthand understanding of what many of our youth go through.
For some, experiencing trauma in their hometown would be a reason to leave and never look back. But for me, once I found stability and success, I knew I had to return, not just for myself, but for the community that raised me. I came back with a mission: to uplift others, to empower those who feel overlooked, and to show that no matter how hard life gets, it’s possible to rise above it. Today, my family and I are doing that work through our nonprofit, DK Movement Cares, which is dedicated to hands-on support, advocacy, and youth empowerment right here in Bristol. Every challenge I’ve faced has fueled my purpose to give back and to lead with compassion, strength, and vision.
With over 20 years of leadership and management experience, I bring a well-rounded background in project development, continuous improvement, sales, and finance. I’ve built a career on turning ideas into action and leading with integrity. In my current role as Vice President Team Leader, I’ve been honored for outstanding achievements, recognized for my strong work ethic, strategic thinking, and exceptional communication skills. My approach to leadership is simple, empower others, stay accountable, and always lead by example. In 2024, I was proud to be recognized by Marquis Who’s Who, a prestigious publication that honors leaders and achievers across the globe. This recognition isn’t just about me, it’s about the values I stand for: resilience, impact, and community-driven success.
Did you know there are over 15,000 unaffiliated voters in Bristol? That’s a powerful voice that deserves true representation. I’m not just running for Mayor I’m also actively working to form the Independent Town Committee for Bristol, and I’m inviting you to be part of this movement. With your support, we can build a political home for those who believe in people over party, action over politics, and unity over division. Let’s work together to create a Bristol where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
We need your signature to help add Derek to the ballot for this upcoming election! Be part of the change, let’s unite for a stronger future.
Contact us today at derek4bristol@gmail.com and let's make an impact together!
MEET & GREET WITH DEREK JONES
May 10, 2025
1PM- 3-PM
Bristol Public Library
Meeting Room #3
Bristol, CT
Come meet Derek, hear his vision for Bristol, and be part of the conversation! This is a great opportunity to ask questions, share your ideas, and learn how Derek plans to create positive change in our community. Let’s come together, connect, and unite for a stronger future. We look forward to seeing you there!
One Bristol, One Vision
Bristol’s strength is in its unity. Join Derek in bridging divisions, celebrating our diversity, and building a thriving city together.
Committed to Our Community
Derek has dedicated his life to supporting individuals & familes, recently through DK Movement Cares, investing directly in the lives and dreams of our neighbors.
Join The Movement
Derek believes real change starts with people like you. Volunteer today and help create the future Bristol deserves.
Solutions for Bristol: Derek’s Perspective
Bristol’s future is shaped by the choices we make today. Derek believes in bold ideas, strong leadership, and a community-first approach. In this space, discover how Derek plans to turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities and how, together, we can move Bristol forward
EDGEWOOD SCHOOL
I believe that education must be seen as a long-term investment, not an optional expense. Our children deserve strong schools, safe spaces, and real opportunities to succeed and that starts with proper funding. While I understand the pressures that come with balancing a city budget, we simply can’t afford to fall short when it comes to our children’s future. The proposed closing of Edgewood School raises serious concerns. If the school is closed, how will we ensure that the children currently attending receive the same level of education, support, and care they deserve? Will new classrooms be properly fitted to meet the needs of all students, including those who require additional assistance and if so, what would the real cost of those retrofits be?
We’re told the city would save approximately $300,000 a year by closing Edgewood. My question is: how will those savings be used? Will they be reinvested into strengthening our education system? Or will they simply go toward temporary tax savings? I strongly believe that if savings are realized, a significant portion should go back into supporting our schools, or at minimum, be split between education and tax relief. We must also consider the real costs of busing students to multiple schools, not just financially, but the impact on students and families. Is there a clear transportation plan? Will costs rise, and if so, by how much?
Regarding the building itself, it’s important to ask: are repairs truly just a "short-term fix"? A properly repaired roof can last over 20 years, and a new HVAC system with regular maintenance can serve the school for a decade or more. If grants or state assistance are available to help with repairs, have we explored all those options fully? This isn’t about blaming or finger-pointing. I appreciate the hard work of Mayor Jeff, Superintendent White, and the Board of Education. I am simply asking important questions and proposing that we come together to find real solutions.
Rather than divide the community, could we explore a community fundraiser or partnerships with local businesses to help cover the costs? Could we find creative ways to invest in the future of Edgewood and, more importantly, the children who call it home? I’m ready and willing to meet with city leaders, school officials, and local businesses to create a positive plan forward. Let's work together, not against each other, to ensure Bristol’s children continue to receive the education and care they deserve.
Because when it comes to our kids, doing the right thing should never feel like a burden it should feel like our shared purpose. I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts by emailing me at derek4bristol@gmail.com. Your voice matters let it be heard!