NORWICH – Norwich resident and business owner Jill Osterhout Kraft filed her petition Monday to run for Mayor of the City of Norwich as a Democratic candidate.

The last time a Democratic candidate ran for mayor of the City of Norwich was in 2006. Kraft is using the slogan "Bring Norwich Together" and said her ultimate goal is to "renew, retain, and revitalize" the city.

Kraft was born and raised in Norwich and has owned and operated The Artists' Palette, a multi-faceted community arts center, since 2009. In 2017 she started the non-profit 501(c)(3) Creative Works, Inc., which focuses on working with people who otherwise would not have access to art.

"My mindset has always been centered around community," said Kraft. "Becoming mayor would be an extension of what I do every day; I try to bring out the good, showcase a job well done all the while concentrating on ways to address the growing concerns that are ever so apparent in our small city."

Through her work, Kraft said she has been involved with Chenango County Mental Health services, drug treatment court, area nursing homes, and other specialty groups. She has sat on the board of directors for Catholic Charities of Chenango County and Colorscape Chenango, and is currently the City of Norwich Youth Bureau Recreational Coordinator.