PEKIN (25News Now) – Pekin City Council member David Nutter announced Tuesday that he is running for mayor in the 2027 municipal election, setting up a potential rematch with incumbent Mayor Mary Burress.
Nutter, who has served on the City Council since 2019, previously challenged Burress in the 2023 mayoral election. He was reelected to his council seat in 2025.
During his announcement Tuesday, Nutter said his campaign will focus on improving government efficiency, addressing financial challenges and increasing communication between city leaders and residents.
“There’s been a lot of good, positive things going on as far as the infrastructure,” Nutter said, pointing to a $30 million sewer project and improvements along Court Street.
However, he believes more work needs to be done to address the city’s financial future.
“We need to take a look at alternative revenues. We’ve got to think outside of the box,” Nutter said.
Nutter identified the city’s upcoming tax levy, revenue challenges and departmental efficiency as some of the biggest issues facing Pekin.
He said rising costs and inflation have placed additional pressure on the city’s finances, making it important for local leaders to evaluate how taxpayer dollars are being spent.
Nutter also emphasized the importance of public input, referencing recent debates surrounding proposed data centers, Flock license plate-reading cameras and utility taxes.
“Every time we tax a citizen, we need to step back and try to evaluate. Is that effective? Is it doing what it’s supposed to do?” Nutter said.
When asked what makes this campaign different from his unsuccessful 2023 mayoral bid, Nutter said his additional experience on the City Council has given him a clearer understanding of what the city needs.
“I guess I’ve learned a lot more,” Nutter said. “I know what the direction we need to take, and hopefully we can lead it that way.”
Nutter also addressed his opponent’s leadership, saying he wants residents to consider the city’s long-term direction.
“Take a look at the record. And this is not a, personal dig on Mary at all. But, you know, you can only do so many photo ops,” Nutter said. “Yes, the city is beautiful, but I want people to know we need to have a plan on where we’re going moving forward.”
Despite his criticism, Nutter acknowledged improvements made during Burress’s administration and said he hopes to build on that progress.
He also emphasized supporting small businesses, saying attracting large corporations should not come at the expense of existing local businesses.
“I’m a driven person. I’m a people person,” Nutter said. “We have to maintain our small businesses.”
Nutter said he wants to encourage more residents to attend public meetings, share their concerns and participate in decisions affecting the city.
“We don’t have enough citizen involvement,” Nutter said. “I like to get out to the people. Talk to us. Talk to us.”
Burress announced her reelection campaign Friday, Nov. 6.
The Pekin mayoral election is scheduled for April 6, 2027.
