JACKSON, Wyo. — Town Councilmember Arne Jorgensen has announced that he is running for mayor of Jackson.
Jorgensen, a Jackson native, has served on Town Council for six years. For the past four years, he has also held the position of mayor pro tempore, stepping in for Mayor Hailey Morton Levinson when she is unavailable.
“During my six years in office — and especially during the last two — I have seen the real-life stressors of making ends meet in an increasingly expensive region,” Jorgensen said in his campaign announcement. “I will continue to provide a thoughtful, positive voice for all community members — not just the loudest in the room.”
In his announcement, Jorgensen notes that his experience as an architect has informed his understanding of Jackson’s housing situation, along with his time serving on the Housing Trust.
“This experience has reinforced my strong focus on housing issues and the need to celebrate the critical positive benefit of our affordable housing owners and renters in our community,” Jorgensen said.
He also emphasized his focus on environmental stewardship and transparent, strategic budgeting.
“We are at a tipping point of losing the core of our community and becoming a resort only,” he says. “We should view our discussions through this lens and reinforce a community of people while respecting the natural resources of Teton County.”
Current Mayor Morton Levinson announced that she wouldn’t seek re-election earlier this month. Also in the running for the position is fellow council member Jessica Sell Chambers.
