BEDFORD — Craig T. Turpen has declared his candidacy for the open at-large seat on the Bedford City Council, following the resignation of Dan Bortner earlier this month.
Bortner stepped down after accepting a new role with the Bedford Chamber of Commerce and Lawrence County Economic Growth Council. A Republican caucus to fill the vacancy is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 15, at the Lawrence County Circuit Court, located inside the Lawrence County Courthouse, 916 15th St. Lawrence County GOP Chairman Chase Cummings will chair the meeting.
Turpen, a lifelong resident of Lawrence County and a certified public accountant, has worked in the accounting field for nearly 40 years. He said his professional experience and local involvement make him well-suited to help the city navigate upcoming challenges, particularly those related to finances.
He has previously served on the Lawrence County Council, including a one-year term as president. He has held leadership roles with the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Lawrence County 4-H Fair Association, and his church, Pinhook Church of Christ. He currently serves as president of the Bedford Redevelopment Commission and vice president of the Bedford Planning Commission.
Turpen said his goal is to work with the mayor and other council members to continue making Bedford “a great place to live and work.”
