Hastings takes out petitions to run for mayor

After spending years revitalizing structures in the Uptown Hillsboro area, Drew Hastings has taken out petitions to run for the office of the mayor of Hillsboro. 

Hastings told The Highland County Press that he took out petitions with the Highland County Board of Elections Office, and that he plans to run as a Republican.

"I don't have mixed feelings about it," Hastings said. "I think the city of Hillsboro needs some help now, so now is really the time to jump in. I think that running four years from now would have been a lot more convenient for me, but not for the city. Life doesn't work conveniently."

Hastings owns the Bells Opera House, the former safety building that housed the fire and police stations, and the former Fifth Third Bank Buildings. 

Hastings, who also owns a farm in the New Market area, said he has a residential address in the city of Hillsboro. 

He is also a nationally known comedian.

"I don't think the pride ever left Hillsboro," Hastings said. "I think it's a little dormant, and needs encouragement. I think that what I bring is a certain ability to generate enthusiasm. I tend to be a very optimistic person and think that's really one of the things I bring to the city. I can rally people."

Terry Mikkelsen is also running for mayor. Incumbent Mayor Dick Zink, as of Wednesday, has not take out petitions to run, according to the board of elections. The last day to file petitions is Feb. 2.