Mike Burgess
Tell us about yourself and why you are seeking office?
I graduated from West Plains Senior High in 1974, and went into the Military, and spent a total of 20 years in service to the nation. After retiring, I moved back to West Plains and worked at the hospital for a little over 23 years. So I have over 43 years in healthcare. I still serve in our community as a volunteer. I hope that if elected, I can help to protect our elderly on fixed incomes, improve our city and community by wisely spending our tax dollars. That we can bring more jobs and businesses to benefit our community.
What role do you feel the city government should play in public health matters?
Listen to our local healthcare advisors as well as listen to the people. Look at the facts as science has been wrong in the past. Inform the public regarding health issues. As a council, ensure the city, meaning police, fire, first responders, sheriff departments are prepared for a disaster. As it is not a matter of if it happens. It’s a matter of when it happens.
When it comes to purchases and city projects, should the city favor the proposal by a local business over the lowest bid, or what decision criteria would you suggest?
If possible, I would like to see the council use local businesses. At the same time, we need to spend the tax dollars wisely. I saw this in the military.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
Our electrical grid needs to be updated as people rely on electricity for air, heat, medical equipment. To answer this question, use what we can, build those things we need.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city?
I think that is something that needs to be looked at. Having spent nearly nine years overseas as well as traveling in major cities, I understand how those run. I would like to see improvement as far as public transportation as well being cost-effective for the city and the people.
What is a local initiative you are willing to support to build unity in the community and on the City Council?
I am unaware of any current initiatives. However, I am willing to entertain any reasonable suggestion which would improve our community in having more transparency between the city and the people and transparency between the county, city, and the people on where our tax dollars are going. The county, city and city council working together to improve where we live as well as keep the people informed and updated on current and potential future projects for improvement.
What policies, efforts or incentives should be used to bring new and better jobs to West Plains?
I would have to look at current policies to answer this question fully. I feel we do need to put stronger efforts into bringing new industry into our area to support more local jobs.
Do you believe there is sufficient transparency in city hall and if not, what changes would you like to see made?
Whether city or county, there needs to be more transparency. Accountability of where every single penny of taxpayer's dollars is going. What areas in the city are in the black and what areas are in the red. How can we bring the ones in the red back into the black. Meaning we aren't spending money just to keep them going. The bottom line is, where is the money going? Where can we spend the people's tax dollars better for the whole community?
Do you think our Main Street/downtown is healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
While downtown has gotten better, there is still more work to be done to improve downtown. Empty buildings need to have a business that would be a benefit to the community to fill a void in what we don't have locally. Working with the council and community leaders to improve downtown.
What else would you like for the community to know?
If elected, I will fight to ensure our elderly and others on fixed incomes are not taxed to where they have to make a decision on eating the right foods, having their medications, heat/air in the appropriate season, having a place to live, able to go to the store. To get our electric grid updated. To ensure in the event of a disaster that West Plains is prepared. I will listen to what the people say. I won't just jump on a mask mandate because someone says to. To see that the city grows in the right direction, I support our Law Enforcement, Fire Department, First Responders, including Emergency Medical Services. We have a big drug problem and homeless problem-what can we do to fix these problems? I want to thank everyone for their support. I hope to be able to make a difference in improving the future of West Plains.
Jessica Nease
Tell us about yourself and why you are seeking office?
Public service is central to who I am as a person. I grew up in a family committed to serving others, and I’ve always prioritized volunteering in my community. Since living in West Plains, I’ve had the privilege of volunteering with some wonderful organizations. I’ve served on the 37th Judicial Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Board, volunteered briefly as their Executive Director, the Child Advocacy Center Board, the West Plains Board of City Pride, the West Plains Downtown Revitalization Board, and the West Plains Regional Economic Development Initiative. Though college isn’t for everyone, it served me well and strengthened my skillset for community service. I have a combined bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, and anthropology from Antioch College and a master’s degree in public administration from Ohio University. I have worked in a variety of positions, including building maintenance, landscaping, factory line work, foster-care case manager, court administrator for a juvenile and probate court, and as a legislative liaison. Past volunteer service includes AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), Parents in Prison program volunteer, an inner-city literacy advocate, and an Alaskan native heritage camp volunteer. However, my most challenging (and rewarding) position to date has been that of a full-time stay-at-home mom to two amazing children. My husband and I have been together for over 20 years. We met our freshman year in college and were married after we graduated in 2003. We have two children who attend West Plains Middle School. Four years ago, I became interested in serving on the West Plains City Council because I am raising children here, and I wanted them to view their hometown as a place of opportunity. With my particular skillsets, I felt that I could contribute to strategic decision-making and help West Plains move into a more sustainable and prosperous future. While the last few years have posed serious challenges that none of us could have ever anticipated, working toward a better future for West Plains did not stop, and I hope local citizens will permit me to continue that work for another four years.
What role do you feel the city government should play in public health matters?
The City of West Plains has long played a role in public health matters by providing safe drinking water, treating wastewater, collecting trash weekly, and by partnering with the Howell County Health Department to employ a Health Inspector who enforces food safety regulations in our local restaurants. In addition, the city promotes healthy lifestyles by providing recreational space and activities for residents.
When it comes to purchases and city projects, should the city favor the proposal by a local business over the lowest bid, or what decision criteria would you suggest?
During my tenure, the West Plains City Council adopted a comprehensive purchasing policy which includes language that encourages soliciting bids from local vendors, and the city’s purchasing department does a great job seeking local options. I prefer to award bids to local businesses, but ultimately my fiduciary duty to utilize tax dollars efficiently and effectively will govern my decisions. If a local vendor is only slightly higher than out-of-town competitors, and the city has no other reason to deny the bid, then, generally speaking, we should make an effort to award the local business.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
Both of these strategies are important in strengthening our city’s economic future; however, market trends will ultimately determine which of these become a priority to developers and companies. I think many of us realize we have a housing shortage in West Plains, and I would like to see more affordable housing options for residents. I think breathing new life into older homes/buildings through renovations/preservation is a great way to not only add more housing options, but also aid in the overall beautification of West Plains. For example, my home is located in the downtown area and was built in the 1930s. Our family fell in love with it and were able to spend a couple of years renovating it to suit our needs. Ultimately, we felt good about preserving a beautiful piece of West Plains’ history, and we love living in it. Recently our city has seen major renovations within the Southern Hills shopping area as well as the old Ridge Crest Plaza. These renovations have brought in new retail businesses, restaurants and housing options to West Plains. As a member of City Council I will continue to look for new ways to encourage more private investment in renovation and restoration projects that benefit the residents of West Plains.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city?
Generally speaking, I feel that West Plains has excellent transportation options for a city of its size. There is always room for improvement, however, and I would encourage people to contact me if there is more that could be offered. The city has a reliable and affordable transit bus route that makes multiple stops throughout the city. Over the last several years, the city has implemented a sidewalk improvement plan and is continuing to upgrade our sidewalks, making them safer for pedestrians and more accessible for residents with mobility issues. The City of West Plains also recently collaborated with the West Plains Bike Group to establish a bike route that continues to grow and develop for cyclists. Additionally, during the March 21 City Council meeting, the council unanimously passed a resolution to incorporate the complete streets program into future street planning. This means that as the city plans future street projects, the needs of pedestrians and cyclists will be considered.
What is a local initiative you are willing to support to build unity in the community and on the City Council?
One of my favorite parts of being a member of City Council is being able to collaborate with individuals, groups, and civic organizations on initiatives that benefit West Plains residents. For example, a few years ago, I was approached by the West Plains Bike Group, who wanted to see the city develop a bike route. I connected the group with city staff members to develop and construct the city’s current bike route. I assisted the group in developing a collaborative plan to ensure that the route wouldn’t negatively impact traffic, or create an undue burden on taxpayers. The group raised money, and applied for grants to aid in the construction and maintenance of the route. Since then they have successfully expanded the route, added a crossing light on Business 63, and also built a trailhead sign that is located in the parking lot of East Towne Village. I am eager to continue collaborating with other individuals and groups on future projects that the community can support.
What policies, efforts or incentives should be used to bring new and better jobs to West Plains?
West Plains has a lot to offer companies and businesses that make our area an attractive investment. I think that as a community, however, we need to understand and accept that the economy that exists now is not the same economy of two years ago. While West Plains is in a much better economic position than many other cities its size, traditional “economic development” concepts are not relevant in today’s economy. For example, in July 2021, the West Plains Economic Development Corporation held a hiring event that attracted forty-two companies seeking to fill 515 open positions within Howell County, and we all know that employers within the City of West Plains continue to struggle to fill positions. Traditional economic development efforts focused on job growth and, at the moment, we do not have the workforce to support such an effort. Therefore, in order for the City of West Plains to thrive, we must prioritize “economic vitality” over “economic development” at this time.
Achieving economic vitality for West Plains means that existing businesses are profitable, the people of West Plains have decent jobs, and that we reduce the level of poverty in our town. In order to do this, we must focus on implementing policy that:
— Supports existing small business development, retention, and expansion.
— Improves quality of life standards through strategic planning and citizen engagement.
— Broadens availability of affordable housing options.
— Expands appropriate, reliable, and affordable high-speed internet access.
— Capitalizes on existing community assets.
— Builds upon existing workforce training and development.
— Ensures infrastructure investment that will support future growth.
If West Plains can take advantage of this time and establish economic vitality, West Plains will be more attractive and better prepared to handle growth and development as the economy recovers.
Do you believe there is sufficient transparency in city hall, and if not, what changes would you like to see made?
Before I began my term as a member of City Council I felt that there was a significant lack of transparency at City Hall. However, when I began my term it became clear that transparency wasn’t necessarily the issue; consistent and open communication was. I cannot speak to the procedural or policy decisions that were made prior to my tenure; however, since I was elected, City Council agendas are publicized earlier, and ordinances must now be read twice to allow for more public review. There is regular social media communication regarding city business, and City Council meetings are now live-streamed and available for review on our website. In addition, our website has become more user-friendly and provides more access to information as well. Ultimately, in order for citizens to feel that their local government is transparent in their decision-making, members of City Council must make themselves available to answer questions about local issues. I make every effort to make myself available to residents and attempt to answer every inquiry deliberately and thoughtfully. If I have the privilege of serving for another term, I hope more people will reach out to me with their questions and concerns.
Do you think our Main Street/downtown is healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
Downtown West Plains holds a special place in my heart. When my children were little and I was anxious to get out of the house, I would walk them around the square, visit the shops, and maybe grab a bite to eat. At that time there were several restaurants, weekly strolls in the warmer months, and regularly scheduled events. At the time, it was a gathering place where I had an opportunity to meet new people, develop lifelong friendships, and fall in love with West Plains. West Plains has a unique and valuable downtown that has the potential to be an economic driver for the city, but it needs help. A vibrant downtown attracts businesses, visitors, and can be used as a way to engage the community as a whole. A comprehensive strategic plan that includes sustainable resource development, community building, and beautification can bring development back to our downtown, again making it a desirable place to open a business or enjoy an evening stroll. I would like to see the city explore the possibility of designating the downtown as a special taxing district where property or sales taxes could be redirected into revitalization. I would like to see the city pursue revitalization grants, and I would like to see more free, family-friendly events being held in our downtown. Lastly, the availability of parking around the square is something that retailers frequently identify as inhibiting growth and development. I personally know of several retailers who have left the square due to this factor. Parking will need to be addressed if the downtown is to succeed.
What else would you like for the community to know?
West Plains continues to be a great place to live and work, but there is always more that can be done. I hope to have your vote, and I am excited about what we may be able to accomplish together in the next four years. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, concerns, or if I can be of service.
Paul Bradshaw
Tell us about yourself and why you are seeking office?
I am Paul Bradshaw, and I was born here in West Plains, and my father was in the military, so we moved and lived in several locations as a child, including West Plains when I was in high school. After school, I married my wife Shelly, and we lived in Thayer. I went through the Missouri Sheriffs Academy here in West Plains and was hired by the Howell County Sheriff's Office in July of 2003. My family and I moved to West Plains in 2004 and have lived here since. I have two wonderful children and am very glad we chose to live in this community. During the last couple years, I have spoken to several people in this community, and they conveyed to me that they felt as if the elected officials have not represented their thoughts and beliefs. This was why I have decided to run for council, to be a voice for the citizens, not their ruler. I am proud to call this community home and feel as if I can listen and represent the good, hard-working people of West Plains.
What role do you feel the city government should play in public health matters?
In the last couple of years, the health issues we have faced in the U.S. have been unprecedented. There were several places that forced a mask or some sort of rule in place, and I do not feel as if it is the job of local governments to get into and force people to follow these. If a local business wants to require some things to shop in their store, then I can choose to follow that rule or shop somewhere else. That's what makes this country so great -- freedom, and I still think the freedoms we have should not be infringed upon by local governments.
When it comes to purchases and city projects, should the city favor the proposal by a local business over the lowest bid, or what decision criteria would you suggest?
I love the things West Plains has done in the last couple of years to improve our city. Our splash pad is a great place for kids to have fun and enjoy cooling off. Our sidewalks down Porter make walking in the area a lot safer. I was asked if we should always use the lowest bidder or should we use local businesses to complete these tasks. I have thought about this and feel that we are placed in charge of taxpayers' money, so we must be smart. I also feel we have great local companies that are very capable of completing these using local people and materials. I think each project has to be looked at with that in mind. Is it going to cost so much that the cost outweighs the benefits of using local businesses? If so, we may have to use the lower bids. These should be weighed case by case and then determined which route is better.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
When asked which is more important for our city now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts the answer is yes. I know that's a bit confusing, but I have been told there is not enough office space in town. I see several office spaces for rent, but they do not fit the needs of the business. I have also seen where a business would like to build to fit their needs, but the cost is too much. I know several people who are looking for a place to rent, and there are none available in the price range they are looking for. It is truly trying times for people to find a place to live and do business, that is why we as a community must support local businesses as much as possible.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city?
The current transportation options are pretty decent for a small town. I know of a couple of options for rides, and the public transportation is a big help to those in need of being taken to shop. I have never used any of the options, but I have had a family member use the public bus to get groceries and supplies locally, and they were thankful it was there to be used.
What is a local initiative you are willing to support to build unity in the community and on the City Council?
I would really like to see us continue to build and improve our parks. These places are vital to help our community look appealing to others. I think having outdoor places to take our children and pets to have them enjoy themselves are extremely important. I will strive to continue to build on these services and to make them available at a low or reasonable cost.
What policies, efforts or incentives should be used to bring new and better jobs to West Plains?
Right now, we seem to have a labor shortage. I hear business owners and managers say they are having a real hard time finding employees to fill open positions. We need to look for ways to try and get some businesses to want to build here. Until we make West Plains a place where people want to move, we will have a hard time getting manufacturing jobs to come here. I have heard we just don't have the workforce to make this area look inviting. We may have to look at some utility incentives to make us look more appealing as a place for a manufacturing company to build and grow their company.
Do you believe there is sufficient transparency in city hall, and if not, what changes would you like to see made?
I am sure the city feels as if it has been transparent with the citizens. I promise if elected, I will not have any hidden agendas or not be willing to listen and show anyone who wants to know why a measure was voted on or as to why I voted a certain way. I will always be honest and open with the voters. I feel honesty is a lost characteristic, and I will bring it back to city hall.
What else would you like for the community to know?
During the last couple years, I have noticed some things that have made me wonder what our city leaders are thinking about. A mask mandate, I still don't know why our city thought it was a good idea to force people and businesses to make a person wear a mask. I was under the impression this was a free county. If I saw a sign on a business where the owner wanted patrons to wear a mask, then if I didn't want to wear one, I would not go in there, or if I wanted to then I would spend my money there. I do not think it is the place of city government to put these in place. I have also noticed that it seems every high position in this town, we have gone out looking for someone from another town to fill that position. I think we have had some very capable people right here already working in upper management, but we have passed right over them. To me, that sends a very bad message to newer employees that want to move up in the department. It sends a message that you have to go to another town to get experience, and then maybe you will have a shot to get to the top at the end of your career. This has lead to a lot of good people to leave their position in the city. I am speaking of several police and firefighters, we have lost many years of experience and several hours of trained instructors because these people don't feel they have a future in our town. We need to try to retain as many employees as possible as the cost of hiring and training these people add up. I know several policies have been put into place and have improved some services, but now that the West Plains Police have stopped doing funeral escorts for families, if the service hasn't been deemed big enough hurts me to my core. I can tell you in my 19-year career as a Howell County Deputy, I have assisted in several funeral escorts and have stopped traffic in busy intersections. These are for the safety of those traveling in the procession and as a lasting sign of respect for the families in them. I know other towns have stopped doing it a while back, but this is West Plains, we don't care how they do it in other places, we are a little different here in our town, and I believe some things and traditions should continue here as a living tribute to those that blazed a trail before us. If elected, I will look into why these things are changing and do my best to correct these things and keep West Plains a great place to live and raise a family.
John Niesen (Incumbent)
Tell us about yourself and why you are seeking office?
I was appointed to City Council in 2021, following Mayor Pahlmann's retirement. I applied for the position because I love West Plains. I believe that government should be made up of ordinary citizens with a passion to serve. That is how I would describe myself. I'm very fond of our town, and I want to be a part of planning our future and addressing our struggles. It is my hope that West Plains will remain a place that we can all call home. This is why I have chosen to run for re-election.
What role do you feel the city government should play in public health matters?
The city should always try to relay the latest information regarding public health and to encourage wise decisions. I believe that everyone should have the freedom to make healthcare decisions that are best for them and their families. On a local level, I don't feel that it's appropriate for City Council to make those decisions. I would encourage everyone to seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.
When it comes to purchases and city projects, should the city favor the proposal by a local business over the lowest bid, or what decision criteria would you suggest?
Whenever possible, I believe that we should use local businesses to perform work for the city of West Plains. By keeping those dollars local, we can help stimulate our own economy. Given the size and scope of city projects, this is not always possible.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
This is really two sides of the same coin. We can't attract new businesses without having residents willing to work those jobs. We can't attract those residents without providing job opportunities. I believe that the city should focus on policies that are friendly to businesses and those that choose to live here. By doing this, we will simultaneously see new homes built and commercial buildings revitalized. It can be a balancing act to keep our taxes low while providing adequate infrastructure, but that balance is required in order for us to be successful. We need a team that will work on both sides of this problem simultaneously.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city?
We just approved the Complete Streets plan in our March City Council meeting. This will give us a fresh way to look at every street project going forward. I'd love to see bike lanes, walking trails, and more sidewalk projects. This is ultimately the design of Complete Streets.
What policies, efforts or incentives should be used to bring new and better jobs to West Plains?
We need to increase tax revenue without increasing the taxes that we all pay. We can do this with tourism. This is why I'm so fond of the tourism grants available from the Hotel/Motel tax. Anyone with a good idea can get financial assistance from the City of West Plains to organize an event to boost tourism. By drawing outside people into West Plains, we can fill our hotels and restaurants and in return, generate more tax revenue to fund our local programs.
Do you believe there is sufficient transparency in city hall and if not, what changes would you like to see made?
I believe that City Hall is transparent. Personally, I would love to see more engagement from our community. There are a lot of empty seats in the room during our City Council meetings. If more of us will choose to be involved, we can expect better and more diverse ideas to come to fruition.
Do you think our Main Street/downtown is healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
There are a lot of great businesses located downtown. I enjoy going there for banking, a haircut, coffee, and even to see one of my best friends at his residence. A lot of hardworking folks have revitalized those spaces. That being said, I believe the city can do more to help create a vibrant downtown. We are already having discussions at City Hall to find ways to promote business growth and activities in the area while protecting our history. I believe the future is very bright for our downtown area.
Ron Grennan
Tell us about yourself and why you are seeking office?
I love West Plains. I think our city is one of the best kept secrets in the country. I am a West Plains High School Class of 1982 graduate, and my family has been in business in West Plains for 40 years. I have been serving this community for 20+ years with the West Plains Kiwanis serving as President three times, spent a decade on the West Plains Chamber of Commerce Board serving as Chairman one year, 3 years on the Board of the West Plains Country Club, serving as President 1 year, and on the Howell County 911 Citizens Advisory Board for 3 years, and served as Chairman my last year. My wife Kim has a real estate office in West Plains, and both of our children attended school here and graduated from WPHS. West Plains is home to us. I am seeking office for a few different reasons. First, I want to give back to the community that has given so much to me and my family. Second, I believe the Council needs a vote and a voice from Small Business. Small business is the fabric of a community our size and is not represented on Council currently.
What role do you feel the city government should play in public health matters?
I feel the city should have a very limited role in public health matters. If a matter arises that would affect the entire city, I believe the city has the obligation to acquire accurate data, and project how it will affect its citizens and then determine a course of action on assisting the Public Health Department. I believe in the individual freedoms that living in the United States affords us, and that the course of action a city government takes should not override these freedoms. First and foremost, the responsibility of a city councilman is to represent the people.
When it comes to purchases and city projects, should the city favor the proposal by a local business over the lowest bid, or what decision criteria would you suggest?
I learned quite a bit about the local economy by being on the Chamber Board for a decade. My preference would always be for the City to spend its money locally whenever possible. Every dollar spent in West Plains multiplies by a factor of seven or is re-spent in West Plains six more times. Local buying has a tremendous impact on the local economy. I am not a fan of always choosing the lowest bid. I prefer the Best Bid method, where other factors besides costs are considered. As a businessperson in West Plains, I am in many competitive bid situations. The lowest bid is not always the best bid. As a Councilman, I would always be looking for the best value over the lowest bid.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
Being married to one of the top real estate agents in the country, I am aware how low the housing inventory is right now. We have people moving to the area from other areas every day. On housing, I say build, build, build. Historically, West Plains has seen great economic growth every time we have gone through a building boom. It is good for our local economy. I also think a lot of retail storefronts will be slowly disappearing. Rehabbing and keeping our town beautiful is a great option. We also have many fantastic properties, especially in our Southern Hills and South 63 area that are prime for box stores and shopping district expansion.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city?
I feel that West Plains offers more transportation options than almost any other city of our size anywhere. The city has a transit system, covered bus stops, and will probably go out of their way to get you where you need to go. There are services in the area that will get you back and forth to the doctor. There is a cab company, and even Uber has a presence now. Our airport is wonderful and should be promoted as an asset to our city.
What is a local initiative you are willing to support to build unity in the community and on the City Council?
I fully support the upcoming TSE (Total Solar Eclipse) event in April of 2024. West Plains, Missouri, will be one of the best places in the world to witness a total eclipse. When this happened a few years ago, Jefferson City and some other towns in the path of the eclipse realized 10,000 or more visitors who came to town to witness the event. I am excited that we are already promoting this event two years in advance. It will be a great opportunity to showcase our city. It also goes without saying that I fully support Mayor Topliff’s Aloha Fridays.
What policies, efforts or incentives should be used to bring new and better jobs to West Plains?
As a small businessman and employer, I feel that before we bring any new jobs to West Plains we need relief in the current staffing crisis. Almost every employer in West Plains (and across the country) is struggling with maintaining and retaining a full staff. I think recruiting a large manufacturer or call center with the current workforce shortages could be a mistake. Most large manufacturers and call centers would probably agree with that as this is not a local problem. I do feel however, until worker supply meets demand, we may need to think outside the box. I think we should be marketing West Plains as a great place to live. Many college students are now choosing where they want to live before finding a job. This is completely opposite of 30 years ago. Work from home (WFH) people are a great option for our community. The WFH movement has steadily increased since internet has improved. The pandemic showed employers that many jobs can be productive as WFH. WFH can have a great impact on the local economy, as they tend to bring money from other economies into our economy. That is one of the reasons I was on the Fiber Broadband Committee for many years. I presented a plan to City Council to make great internet delivered on fiber an option to the people of West Plains. City Council voted yes on this. Having world-class internet in a very desirable place to live should attract the WFH crowd. Constantly improving our existing amenities and adding new amenities should strengthen the effort. Work from home and make West Plains your home. I think a joint effort between tourism and economic development could Make it Happen Here.
Do you believe there is sufficient transparency in city hall and if not, what changes would you like to see made?
I believe there is sufficient transparency at City Hall. One of the reasons I am running for City Council is a chance to work with some great people. I am impressed across the board with the approachability and responsiveness of anyone I have worked with at City Hall. The City of West Plains has made some very impressive hires over the last few years.
Do you think our Main Street/downtown is healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
West Plains is blessed with a great and historic downtown. If you travel anywhere, most downtowns are dying, or high crime districts. Ours is vibrant, and something new is happening all the time. Old buildings are being restored, even the Avenue Theater is now going to be showing movies again. We have a Downtown Association that organizes events like the Friday Evening Strolls. We have the Old Time Heritage Music Festival; we have concerts and events at the Civic Center.
What else would you like for the community to know?
— Small business deserves a voice and a vote on City Council. I would like to be that voice.
— If elected, I would like to be heavily involved in economic development for the City of West Plains.
— I believe great internet is a major key in economic development for West Plains.
— I feel long term planning is important.
— I fully support law enforcement and would like to make sure the West Plains Police Department has all the tools and training they need to serve and protect West Plains.
— North Terra Golf Course, the swimming pools, the parks are all great amenities for West Plains. I would like to see them thrive, and add amenities for our citizens, and to attract potential new residents.
