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Kelly Russell (D), a 25-year city resident and retired lieutenant at the Frederick Police Department, officially announced her candidacy for one of five aldermen seat this week.

Russell, 49, who serves as the special vehicles coordinator for the police department, filed her paperwork in January, but made her formal announcement on the steps of City Hall in front of about 15 supporters on Monday.

A member of the city's Neighborhood Advisory Council 9 and Zoning Board of Appeals, Russell said that her years in public service have qualified her to advocate on behalf of residents and encourage a collaborative approach to governing. Russell retired from the police department in 2005 after serving for 22 years.

"I am, at heart, an invocation of public service," said Russell, who branded her political approach and slogan, "Common Sense for the Common Good."

Russell said she would promote a responsive, accessible environment in City Hall to engage residents in the democratic process. She said that she feels the city has been unresponsive on issues such as overcrowding and parking regulations for commercial vehicles.

"It's affecting people's ability to enjoy their neighborhoods," she said. "They feel like they're not taken seriously."

Russell joins Andrew Kotkin and Michael O'Connor in the Democratic aldermen race. The only Republican to enter the race is Senitta Conyers. No incumbents have yet officially announced their intent to run for office.

The city's primary elections will take place Sept. 15; the general election is Nov. 3.