Businessman Craig Kirsch has announced his candidacy for the Rapid City Council in Ward 1.

Kirsch has lived in Ward 1 for 25 years, and he owned and operated Two Wheeler Dealer Cycle & Fitness stores in Rapid City and Spearfish. He sold those businesses in 2007 and currently is a partner in a Sioux Falls Two Wheeler Dealer location and also operates commercial rental properties in the Black Hills.

Kirsch and his wife, Trish, have been married 17 years and have six children. Kirsch earned a business degree from Black Hills State University. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, bicycling and camping.

As a businessman for more than two decades, Kirsch said, he knows the importance of the bottom line and believes his business background and knowledge of the city and Ward 1 will allow him to effectively serve taxpayers. He said he advocates fiscal responsibility and limited government.

"I believe that city government should be run like a business, and that's the perspective I'll bring to the position," he said. "I'm willing to take the time to learn about the issues, and I look forward to listening to the concerns of the citizens of Ward 1. I'll do my best to bring a fresh voice and perspective to the process."