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"I've learned a lot and I'm still learning," he told The Missourian.
"I'm excited about potentially having the opportunity to serve the citizens of Washington and the opportunity to work with the city staff. Over the last 18 months, I have seen what they have accomplished. They have a vision, and I understand and share their vision with them. I'm motivated to be a part of it."
Mohesky said he doesn't view his campaign as running against Stratman. "I think he's done a great job."
Rather, he said his biggest concern is who might end up in the mayor's chair in the future.
"I think the people want someone who is open-minded. One who can see the big picture. I think the mayor needs to be someone who can take a stand and live with the consequences."
He said he's been very impressed with the city staff and the job they do for the citizens.
"These guys are really trying to do a good job for the city," Mohesky said. "They really want what's good for the city and the citizens. They're an awesome group."
Mohesky points to his experience as a small businessman for almost 20 years. He owns and operates Paper Chase, a local printing company.
"I've dealt with insurance issues, personnel issues and have been faced with making quick decisions," Mohesky said. "I'm hoping all that will help me do a good job as mayor.
"As a small business owner, I am keenly aware of the challenges businesses face today. And just like private businesses, the city faces these same challenges such as rising health care costs. My experience will be beneficial in those matters.
"If I win, I'll have to lean on the current mayor for guidance and as a mentor," he conceded.
Mohesky said some of his priorities would be make sure the community continues to grow and create new job opportunities for citizens. On that side, he said the city needs to take care of small businesses which are crucial to the community.
Another pressing need in the city is to promote affordable housing, Mohesky said. "I think the way the economy is going, we need to look for ways to create more work force housing." That's how Washington started out, he said, a community of small and moderate homes.
Renewal of the half-cent capital improvement sales tax is "really important" to the city's continued growth, he said.
"Look at what we've been able to accomplish in the past" thanks to the tax revenue, Mohesky remarked.
He said he would like to see some of the money used to expand the Insituform program, under which old, decaying sewer lines are rehabilitated with interior plastic liners.
That program is important to reduce sewer backups during times of heavy rains, he said.
In the near future, the city also will need to address fees at the city landfill which are far below those charged in other areas. "We either pay now or pay down the road," he noted.
"I don't have an ax to grind with anyone," Mohesky said. "Anyone on the council who does is in the wrong spot."
Mohesky said he met with Stratman to discuss his decision and it was "a very good meeting.
"Whether I'm the right guy or not will be determined by the people," he said.
