After building his own business from the ground up, local business man Earl Gable said he is ready to run the city of Sycamore.

“I take a lot of pride in this community,” Gable said, “and if people don’t like what’s going on, then they should vote for me.”

Gable is one of three candidates running for mayor in April’s election.

Gable has experience preparing political agendas and working with company CEOs, he said.

He has owned his own business franchise, Just Your Type Transcription Company, for eight years, Gable said.

“I can bring a lot to the table with my experience as a businessman,” he said.

If elected mayor, the top priority would be what the people of the community have to say, Gable said.

“Many people are not pleased with the direction that Sycamore has gone,” Gable said. “People feel like they are not being listened to.”

“With many candidates, I can’t tell what’s personal and what’s campaigning,” Gable said. “I want the people to be able to talk to me about their concerns.”

People should become more involved in the community and, if elected mayor, he would encourage aldermen to gain more public support, he said.

Gable’s wife, Stacy Gable, said listening to what the people have to say is what sets him apart from other candidates.

“No one really listens to the people who make up this town, like the people who own the mom-and-pop shops, and they know what’s best,” she said.

Gable said he is ready to face the issues if elected mayor.

Sycamore has issues which need attention, he said. Community and industry growth within Sycamore and growth in surrounding communities are important issues, Gable said.

He also said he has been involved in the community from sponsoring fundraisers to supporting community projects.

His co-workers said he is committed to community service.

“As long as I’ve known him, he’s been involved in community projects and town meetings,” said co-worker Julie Baehni.

Mayoral and other city official elections are April 5.