Fourth candidate files to run for Noblesville mayor

A fourth candidate has entered the Noblesville mayoral race.

Vince Baker filed to run in the Republican primary Friday. He joins local business owner Mike Corbett, current city councilor Chris Jensen and former Noblesville School Board member Julia Kozicki in a race to replace Mayor John Distslear, a Republican.

Candidates have until Feb. 8 to file to run in May’s primary.

Baker is Noblesville’s urban forester, responsible for the care of trees in city's right of way. Those duties include planting and pruning trees, removing them when necessary and dealing with storm damage. He also communicates with Noblesville residents about tree issues and helps the street department with snow removal and leaf pickup when necessary.

Baker said he is running for mayor because he is passionate about Noblesville and the people and businesses that make up the community. He pledged to run an honest, positive and transparent campaign, and to listen to concerns and issues that face residents. 

He said Noblesville needs to take a more common-sense approach for planning for the future.

His campaign platform says public safety will be his No. 1 priority. He’s also concerned about maintaining and preserving Noblesville’s history; gaining a better sense of control on infrastructure and development; and evaluating current ordinances and policies.

In addition to serving on the Noblesville Tree Board, Baker is the Hamilton County representative for the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education organization, a national not-for-profit organization that promotes motorcycle safety and protects motorcyclists’ rights through education.

He lives in Noblesville with his wife, Traci, and son, Mason.