Your Johnson County voter guide for city council & mayor candidates in Nov. 7 election

Early voting — also called in-person advance voting — begins Saturday for Johnson County’s municipal and school board elections on Nov. 7. That means any registered voter can cast a ballot before Election Day at an advance voting location.

There are 10 advance voting locations in Johnson County. They are open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays Oct. 28 and Nov. 4, and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30 through Friday, Nov. 3.

This voter guide covers the candidates for the nonpartisan mayor and city council elections in Johnson County cities.

How the voter guide works

Click on the race you’re interested in to view candidates’ responses to three survey questions in their own words. Candidates are listed in the order they will appear on your ballot.

The Star contacted each candidate multiple times over the past several weeks using contact information provided by the county election office and any contact information we could find on our own that was not otherwise available. We asked that candidates keep their responses to 150 words or fewer.

Those without responses listed under their names did not respond by the deadline.

If you are a candidate and would like to get in touch with us and submit responses still, you can email Allison Dikanovic at adikanovic@kcstar.com. Voters will continue using this tool all the way through Election Day.

A note on editing and fact-checking

Survey responses are the candidates’ own words exactly. The Star did not fact-check or edit responses and did not make any stylistic changes to correct grammar, spelling, punctuation or capitalization errors.

If you are concerned about misinformation or would like to learn more about some of the issues referenced in candidates’ responses, we wanted to include this past story about how to spot misinformation: How to tell if a politician is lying? A scholar who studies what they say has some advice.

De Soto City Council

You can vote for up to three of the following at-large candidates to serve a four-year term.

Zack Bradley

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am a retired U.S. Army combat veteran of Afghanistan, Bosnia, and Iraq; I was a combat medic and later Military Police. I have been a Deputy Sheriff and also a volunteer FireFighter/EMT. I am currently an Emergency Management Specialist for the Federal government. I’m also a Hazardous Materials Technician and WMD/CBRN Specialist. I build cohesive teams from people with diverse education, experience, socioeconomic, and demographic backgrounds to create complex solutions to complicated, emergency problems. I’m not an engineer but I have a lot of civil and specialized engineering experience. I believe in doing what’s right and Service above self.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top three priorities are good governance, economic opportunity, and housing.

Good governance includes good stewardship of taxpayer money, good law- & policy-making, and commitment to preserving community values. I’m an extremely pragmatic person and plan to spend city funds as carefully as my own. I plan to legislate for the good of the entire community — not just business and not just residents but rather the community as a whole.

Economic opportunity includes employment in our community and ability to travel to jobs outside our community. We NEED blue-collar service workers as much as white-collar. We NEED transport infrastructure to continue economic development for business AND citizens.

Housing price ranges available to ALL our citizens is crucial. I plan incentivization for building ‘missing middle’ housing that we need: smaller housing units; duplexes, triplexes, quadraplexes, and other small multifamily units; accessory dwelling units; and other housing that supports more affordability.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Everyone I’ve talked with for any significant length.

Campaign website: https://tinyurl.com/dssjkpjx

Danny Lane

Incumbent? Yes

Danny Lane did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Victoria McMoran

Incumbent? No

Victoria McMoran did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Kevin R. Ritter

Incumbent? Yes

Kevin R. Ritter did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Courtney Tripp

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am uniquely qualified to serve De Soto, especially during this time of significant growth and change. I am a lifelong volunteer, currently serving on the Sunflower House board of directors and volunteering at the De Soto Food Pantry. My volunteer work demonstrates my passion for and commitment to community service. Professionally, I have worked 18 years in the communications and marketing field, which has given me the opportunity to work across a variety of industries, including healthcare, education, engineering, and water solutions. This broad perspective paired with my strength in communications would serve the people of De Soto well.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top three priorities are community-building/communications, infrastructure, and affordability. In communication/community-building, I will work to increase communications with members of the public, both through council channels and through my own social media and email communications. Additionally, I will elevate and extend the great community events in De Soto to further build community in our small town. For infrastructure, I am focused on making sure we make improvements to 83rd Street to make this road safer and easier to navigate. I have the network to work with neighboring communities and governments to make sure we have the collaboration to see this project through. Finally, to keep the community affordable, I will work with my fellow councilmembers to continue to lower the mill levy to ensure individuals aren’t overburdened by taxes, and that growth for De Soto also means that businesses contribute to the tax base and prosperity of our community.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Kelly, De Soto City Council President Lori Murdock, the Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus, IBEW Local Union 124, and AFL-CIO Tri-County Labor Council

Campaign website: http://www.courtney4desoto.com

Joshua Turk

Incumbent? No

Joshua Turk did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Edgerton City Council

You can vote for up to three of the following at-large candidates to serve a four-year term.

Joshua E. Beem

Incumbent? Yes

Joshua E. Beem did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Ron Conus

Incumbent? No

Ron Conus did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Deb Lebakken

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I possess the unique ability to set aside my personal feelings and desires in order to advocate for the constituents I represent. The needs and wants of residents as a whole are what matter most. I am always open to listening to any residents who approach me with a concern or idea, and advocate for them.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

To bring to fruition the implementation of what residents want to see put into place to make our town better, to make sure the city’s spending is kept in check and done in a way that is best for the city/residents as a whole, to question everything and use facts instead of opinion to make decisions. I will accomplish this by listening to the citizens - not only the loudest voices, but all of them. I do not approach being on council with a personal agenda - I have and will always listen to the community. As an analyst & problem-solver by both nature and profession, I work hard to find the best solution or approach to a situation or idea...regardless of my personal feelings.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

I have a 95% approval rating from Mainstream Coalition.

Clay Longanecker

Incumbent? Yes

Clay Longanecker did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Fairway City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 1

Jason M. Rogers

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

As the incumbent Ward 1 City Council Member, I have accumulated extensive experience in understanding the challenges facing Fairway. Over the course of four years, I have actively participated in various City Council Meetings and committee sessions, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the issues directly affecting our city.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Fairway First - Opposing partisan politics, focusing solely on what’s best for Fairway.

Commitment to City Infrastructure - Dedicated to preserving the city’s infrastructure that residents are accustomed to.

Economic Growth - Aim and attract businesses, to enhance Fairway’s Retail footprint.

Lee Story

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

My qualifications are rooted in a combination of experience, dedication, and a genuine commitment to addressing the concerns of our community. Having lived in Fairway for over 18 years, I deeply understand our town’s unique character and the issues that matter most to neighbors. I am a successful small business owner and former executive with sound problem-solving, management, financial, listening, and decision-making abilities, which will be valuable assets in addressing our city’s challenges and opportunities. I am running to make a difference in the lives of Fairway residents by addressing real problems with practical solutions and choosing action over inaction.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Enhancing our infrastructure and services in a changing environment. Smart technology, climate resiliency, sustainability, efficient bidding, and emergency preparedness must be part of a comprehensive plan to meet the evolving needs of our community and continue to provide superior infrastructure, neighborhood aesthetics, and city services Fairway residents deserve and demand.

Small businesses are vital for all communities. I’m dedicated to supporting existing businesses and addressing growing vacancies. I will collaborate with current owners, reach out to area entrepreneurs, and work to promote distinctive, locally-owned businesses that align with our city’s special charm and footprint.

I will actively promote increased community involvement in city government and work to ensure each resident’s perspective is heard and well-informed. This is a fundamental aspect of a responsive and accountable government. I will proactively engage residents and create a transparent atmosphere where ideas are shared and concerns find effective solutions.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mainstream Coalition 100% Candidate RatingEquality Kansas 100% Candidate RatingTri-County Labor Council / IBEW 124

Campaign website: http://leestoryforfairway.com

WARD 2

Jonalan Smith

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Having lived in Fairway with my family for 10 years, and having spent a good portion of that time serving on the City of Fairway Planning Commission and subsequently City Council, I have been fortunate to learn and understand our City and the issues facing our residents.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Keep Fairway Safe - by supporting the Fairway Police Department, along with supporting the necessary renovations to the Police Department Building

Support our infrastructure needs - including repairing and replacing our original, 75 year old Storm Water Sewers and repairing and improving our roads, sidewalks, and street lights to make Fairway more pedestrian friendly.

Keep our Property Tax Mil Levy low, while keeping Fairway financially sound.

Jerry L. Williams

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have lived in Fairway since February 2012 and love it! Living in Fairway as one of very few Black families here allows me the opportunity to share experiences that I believe few others experience in my city. My boys attended and graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School, my wife is heavily involved in the arts community in KC, and I continue my work for 30+ years as a corporate executive. We have experiences and a perspective that I believe would go a long way to help our community move forward in an inclusive manner.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My priorities include the following:

1. Supporting the Fairway police department to allow them to continue to provide a safe community for our residents.

2. Listen and learn from the Indian tribes as we work to improve support for Shawnee Indian Mission in our community by acknowledging, reflecting and honoring the history and legacy of the space.

3. Listen to our residents and implement initiatives and action important to many like traffic calming on many of our streets, and storm water runoff management in several of our areas.

Campaign website: http://jerrywilliamsforfairway.com

WARD 3

James E. Hafner

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Have a background working as social worker in health care and mental health for some 42 years with a variety of people and can listen to their concerns and address their issues and navigate various systems that can relieve their concerns. Also have 43 year history of being a KC landlord restoring couple properties and working with various contractors within a budget. Have various volunteer experiences of addressing social concerns.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Will listen and represent the voices of those in the ward as relates to their concerns and quality of life and to promote an inclusive and welcoming community for all. Will maintain and enhance the quality of life as relates to public safety, infrastructure, sustainability, economic and housing development within the framework of a balanced budget. Will work toward the advancement of the cultural and historical aspects of the Shawnee Indian Mission and work cooperatively within the administration problem solving on all present and future city issues and collaboratively if needed with surrounding municipalities on common issues for the betterment of the whole region.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Tri-State Labor Union

Campaign website: http://jhafnerforfairwaycouncil.com

Joseph Levin

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have been Ward 3 Councilman for 8 years and Fairway City Treasurer for 5 years prior. I have served on all Department Committees including Finance, which I chaired for 5 years. In my business career I was Senior VP of Employers Reinsurance Corp responsible for major financial management.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Keep Fairway Safe, Clean and Beautiful

Maintain fiscal soundness of Fairway

Maintain and update infrastructure

Priority one is obtained by maintaining and supporting the moist professional Police Department. Priority 2 is met by careful budgeting and controlling expense. Priority is met by pro-active management and surveillance of infrastructure.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Various Fairway residents including present and former City Councilmen and the former Mayor of Fairway.

Campaign website: http://levinward3fairway.com

Gardner City Council

You can vote for up to three of the following at-large candidates to serve a four-year term.

Jonathan B. Allee

Incumbent? No

Jonathan B. Allee did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Kacy Deaton

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have been attending council meetings since 2014. I have served on the Citizen’s Police Advisory Committee and the Planning Commission before joining the City Council in 2021.

I listen to all sides and value open communication and transparency. I put Gardner and its citizens first in all decision making. If elected, I will continue to support responsible growth in Gardner as well as being a good steward of the taxpayer dollars.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1: Diversifying our tax base by encouraging more new businesses thereby lessening the burden on our citizens.

2: Continue to improve maintenance on existing and future infrastructure, i.e. roads and utilities.

3: Promote quality of life by supporting new parks and events in town. Quality of life can also be shown by properly funding our police department so everyone can feel safe in their community.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Kansans for Life; Johnson County Young Republicans; Johnson County Republican Party

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/KacyDeatonforGardnerCityCouncil

Heather L. Koelzer

Incumbent? No

Heather L. Koelzer did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Steven M. McNeer

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Lifetime of Leadership Oppotunities - US Marine Corps Veteran - Member of Gardner Rotary Club - 21 Years Local Business Owner-Self Employed - Appointed to Gardner Economic Development Committee 2 Years - Appointed to 2 terms City Of Gardner Planning Commission, Currently serving as Chairman

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1. Fiscal Accountability: Spending the tax payers money responsibly

2. Sound Policy: Sound and Common Sense Policy - Avoiding unintended consequences

3. Transparency: Include and allow the public to see how their government works

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Kansans for Life. Bill Sutton - KS House District 43 Representative

Tory Kristen Roberts

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am very experienced in all aspects of serving on the City Council. I am the former chairman of the City of Gardner Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals where I served for eight years. I was also on the Gardner City Council from 2013 through 2015 and again 2019 through the present. I represent the citizens 100%!

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Minimizing the tax burden for the Gardner residence. Maintaining and expanding infrastructure. Making sure Gardner remains a safe place for everyone to live.

Campaign website: http://votetorygardnerkansas.blogspot.com

Mark Wiehn

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have been serving on the Gardner City Council for the past year. Previous to moving to Gardner I have been in leadership positions in every organization that I have been apart of going back to college. I grew up in a town the exact same size as Gardner and I have lived in cities and towns since then and seen what they did well and what they executed poorly. I bring all of this insight into my role on the City Council.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

I would like to expand the businesses and offering of the Gardner Downtown by working to bring people downtown. This may require the support of the city to offer attractions or the review of city codes that are hindering grow.Supporting housing, entertainment, and shopping developments that expand the tax base for Gardner. This may require the creation of special tax districts in the city, but those districts should not take those tax dollars out of the city or the area. Maintaining the infrastructure of the city by planning for the expected growth due to the increased traffic due to the intermodal and the opening of the Panasonic plant.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

IBEW Local 124, Tri-County Labor Council, and Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council

Campaign website: http://www.markforgardner.com

Leawood Mayor

You can vote for one candidate to serve a four-year term.

Marc Elkins

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I deeply believe that to be an effective leader, you much first have served your community. I have been actively involved as a volunteer serving the Leawood community for over 20 years:

Chairman Leawood Planning Commission - 9 years

Leawood Planning Commission -- 18 years

Director Leawood Community Foundation -- 10 years

Leawood Arts Commission -- 2 years

Leawood Branding Task Force

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1) Review and revise 135th Street Corridor Plan and Leawood Development Ordinance. Revisit our vision of 135th Street as a collection of mixed-use developments. Specifically, consider limits on the height of buildings; limits on residential density; and revisions to the mix of retail, office and residential uses. The 135th Street corridor remains Leawood’s greatest opportunity for commercial development that further diversifies our tax base.

2) Encourage investment in North Leawood while maintaining the character of the neighborhoods and quality of life that makes Leawood a distinctive place to live. Leawood is known for the quality of life found in its northern neighborhoods. Those neighborhoods, however, are beginning to age and to see a resurgence of interest from young professionals and families. The Leawood Development Ordinance should encourage reinvestment while maintaining the city’s character through regulation on height and mass relative to neighboring homes.

3) Enhance Citizen Engagement. Convene annual HOA President’s Conference

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Alice Hawk -- Leawood Foundation

Mary Larson -- Leawood City Council

Jim Rawlings -- Leawood City Council

Debra Filla -- Leawood City Council

James Azeltine - Leawood City Council

Jean Wise -- Former Leawood Mayor

Gary Bussing -- Former Leawood City Council

Campaign website: http://www.marcelkinsforleawood.org

Steve Hentzen

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Steve Hentzen is the unifying leader who listens, and will bring your voice and a transparent decision making process at City Hall. He was born in KC, raised in Johnson County, and for decades enjoyed life in Leawood thanks to a thriving IT career. After reaping the benefits of our great public schools, he has spent the last decade demonstrating his commitment to public service by giving back to our community as the co-founder of the Prostate Network. This work has given him extensive experience running public meetings and working with our government to deliver things people need and love.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Steve Hentzen’s top policy issues are public safety, public works and economic growth. He is committed to offering public services of the highest quality with a strong emphasis on approachability and exceptional service. Steve believes in a welcoming environment where residents feel valued and receive the support they need. Transparency is the cornerstone of his agenda, and he will prioritize financial transparency. As mayor, Steve will challenge the 11% spending increase, as providing the highest quality of services can be maintained without such a dramatic jump. He will push for a mill levy cut in the 2025 budget and will approach development differently by visualizing our city’s data from the last decade to better inform our citizens. Steve will work for increased building efficiency standards and renewable energy. With Steve Hentzen as the Mayor, citizens will be heard and supported.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

The Hentzen campaign is proud to be supported by the following groups in the Leawood community:

Moms Demand Action

Mainstream Community Rating (95)

Equality Kansas 77% Candidate Rating

AFL-CIO Tri-County Labor Council and Area Local Corp

Greater Kansas City Building & Construction Trades Council

Electrical Workers I.B.E.W. Local #53

Electrical Workers I.B.E.W. Local #124

PipeFitters Local Union 533

Roofers Local #20

Sheet Metal Workers Local #2

Prostate Network

Campaign website: https://www.4leawood.org

Leawood City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 1

Charles R. Brettell

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

As an economic development professional with almost 20 years of experience, I have interacted with all levels of government – from city councils to the US Department of Transportation - delivering results for my clients in the agriculture, energy & building materials industries. I also own a securities broker-dealer (and am a licensed municipal securities principal), serving as its Chief Compliance Officer interacting with the SEC, FINRA and state securities agencies on an everyday basis. My education complements the above as I’m a KU-trained lawyer with an MBA and an advanced degree in taxation from UMKC.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My Top 3 priorities will be to

1) Augment the knowledge, skills and capabilities of the Council so it can better & more independently perform its functions;

2) Change the way the Council governs to make it more accountable to and engaged with the needs of the people (like reducing property taxes for our neighbors on fixed incomes), and

3) Put Ward 1 matters 1st in all instances of City business. My plan for Leawood is nothing short of generational, transformative change to all parts of the City Code relating to the City’s operations.

As the only candidate with a written change agenda (www.brettellforleawood.com/change), folks can see for themselves all the areas where Leawood has fallen behind – including in City budgeting where the foundational documents are 20+ years old, resulting in an out-of-control spiral of City spending, a lack of institutional controls and dismissal of the needs of the people.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Johnson County Democratic Women, MainStream Coalition and the Tri-County Labor Council. Because we’re running a very independent campaign that pits me against both the establishment (e.g. the current City Council) and the Republican & Democratic parties, we’ve not sought additional endorsements to avoid being constrained in our ability to speak truth to power.

Campaign website: http://www.brettellforleawood.com

Matt Peppes

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I currently serve on the board of the Leawood Homes Association, which has approximately 1,500 homes, so before my campaign even began, I’ve already engaged with several residents from Ward 1 to tackle local issues and gain a deeper understanding of their concerns and needs. Serving on the HOA has also given me a firsthand look at how local governance functions, including the decision-making process, budgeting, and community engagement. This experience can be extremely beneficial when transitioning to a city council role - so I’ll be ready to go on day one!

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

I am committed to enhancing our community’s quality of life by building a stronger collaboration between the city government and HOAs in Leawood. This partnership will ensure policies balance the needs of both neighborhoods and the broader community, fostering trust and communication. Another priority is to ensure the old fire station off Lee Blvd becomes a vibrant and accessible green space that will benefit all residents. By investing in this green space, we can promote healthier lifestyles, provide a safe and enjoyable space for families, and strengthen the social fabric of our city. Furthermore, I’ll encourage sustainable development and more green spaces within communities, emphasizing the importance of resident feedback. To facilitate this, I’ll improve digital communication through website updates and enhanced social media presence. By encouraging active involvement from residents in city planning, we can collectively shape a more resilient, vibrant, and cohesive community.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

James Azeltine - Leawood City Council Member

Julie Cain - Leawood City Council Member

Debra Filla - Leawood City Council Member

Lisa Harrison - Leawood City Council Member

Mary Larson - Leawood City Council Member

Jim Rawlings - Leawood City Council Member

Chuck Sipple - Leawood City Council Member

Alan Sunkel

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I co-owned and managed a light manufacturing company for 30 years providing custom-printed glassware and ceramics for the collegiate market nationwide; budgeting, planning and collaborating with suppliers, employees, and customers to achieve mutually beneficial results. For the last 6 years I have volunteered as an organizer, working with many community members to elect common-sense local candidates.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1) In response to a survey I delivered this summer, the residents of Ward 1 wanted me to prioritize public infrastructure maintenance and preserving the environment; so I will certainly prioritize those.

2) I will work to improve communication with HOAs and our residents so everyone has the information necessary to make our government of the people more responsive, effective, and efficient. I have already started a monthly newsletter as part of this effort.

3) I will work to keep the mill levy as low as possible without sacrificing the services that we value and I am committed to working with the Johnson County Commission, in addition to the city council, to help those most affected by property tax increases to stay in their homes. This might be capping or deferring the increases for longtime residents.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mike Kelly, Chairman, Johnson County Commission; Ethan Corson, State Senator, District 7; Melanie Haas, Chair, Kansas State Board of Education; The Tri-County Labor Council; IBEW 124; 100% rating from Equality Kansas; 100% rating from Mainstream Coalition; I have the Moms Demand Gun Sense Candidate Distinction

WARD 2

Margaret Berger

Incumbent? No

Margaret Berger did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Sherrie M. Gayed

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I’m an attorney with a background in land use law and real estate development. I am the Director of Economic Development for KU Hospital. Currently serve on the Leawood Planning Commission and formerly on the Sustainability Advisory Board. I have worked in municipalities across the country assisting with their Comprehensive and Master Plans to ensure success of the city into the future. I have a thorough understanding of municipal government, development, property taxes, budgets, and mill levies. I have a history of community service, respectfully working with colleagues and neighborhoods and can bring a common sense, knowledgeable and analytical approach.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Increasing transparency, communication, and engagement with the residents of Leawood. Intentionally expanding outreach to HOAs and residents. Increasing awareness of opportunities to have their voice heard and to learn about and engage with the city process.

Public Safety and full funding for Police and Fire. Prioritization of Public Works projects to maintain high-quality infrastructure and street maintenance. Leawood is consistently ranked one of the safest cities in Kansas. Leawood’s Fire Department is exceptional and officially accredited. Leawood Public Works is efficient and has a proactive approach to aging infrastructure. Potholes are filled within one day of reporting and streets and parking lots are cleared within 48 hours of a snow event.

The thoughtful development of the remaining land and an analytical eye to development proposals in Leawood. Looking at the 135th Street plan and the Leawood Development Ordinance to ensure developments are an appropriate reflection of our quality and growth.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mary Larson- Leawood City Council Member

Jim Rawlings- Leawood City Council Member

Chuck Sipple- Leawood City Council Member

Debra Filla- Leawood City Council Member

Julie Cain- Leawood City Council Member

James Azeltine- Leawood City Council Member

Lisa Harrison- Leawood City Council Member

Patricia N. Colloton- Kansas State Representative 2004-2013 and Leawood Resident

George Schlagel- Vice Chair JOCO Park and Recreation Board

Terry Dunn- Philanthropist and former CEO JE Dunn

Campaign website: Facebook Page: /SherrieGayedforLeawoodCityCouncil

Lenexa Mayor

You can vote for one candidate to serve a four-year term.

Joe Karlin

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Several areas of experience combine to make me the most qualified candidate. First, I have served Lenexa for 18 years; the past 14 years on City Council and 4 years before on Planning Commission. Second, I have spent a career in finance and accounting. I understand the city’s finances and I am experienced and well-positioned to guide the city through whatever economic situations come our way. Third, our family has called Lenexa home for 31 years. We’ve been actively involved in the community serving as HOA president, school volunteers, church youth group leaders, and co-founding two non-profits.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top priorities are public safety, community, and value for taxes. On public safety, we have amazing fire and police departments. Across the region, property crime is on the rise and Lenexa is no different. I will implement a Property Crime Task Force to prevent property crime and pursue criminals committing crimes. On community, I believe I am the only candidate in the county that is actively working to address affordable/attainable housing. We have launched a private-public partnership to address housing affordability in Johnson County. On taxes, I will bring cost-cutting finance practices from my private practice to Lenexa.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

I have a number of colleagues that have supported my campaign. You can see their testimonials at my website.

Campaign website: http://www.joekarlinforlenexamayor.com

Julie Sayers

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

When I took over as the new owner of my small business, it was critical to provide stability and clear communication to staff, suppliers, and customers in order to maintain business as usual. As Lenexa navigates the transition to a new mayor for the first time in 20 years, the same applies.

As a current member of our City Council, I am well-prepared to lead Lenexa with the same values and vision that have resulted in the success we enjoy today. As a business owner and designer, I have real-world experience managing people and resources to achieve the best results.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

INTENTIONAL DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT

As Lenexa continues to grow, we must be thoughtful in our planning process. While new development benefits everyone by broadening the tax base, we must also keep reinvesting in our historical neighborhoods, roads, and infrastructure so that all parts of Lenexa remain healthy, beautiful, and connected.

SUPERIOR PUBLIC SAFETY

Lenexa is a premier city in our region, due in no small part to the safety of our community. Our police and fire departments are vital to our city, and I will keep working to ensure they have the resources necessary to serve our residents.

EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE

From parks and festivals to high-quality city services, residents value the quality of life that Lenexa offers in return for their tax dollars. I will continue to pursue and prioritize programs and services that make everyday life better for residents and make the very best use of our resources.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Chairman Mike Kelly: Chair of the JoCo Board of Commissioners

Senator Dinah Sykes: KS Senate Democratic Leader, District 21

Rep. Susan Ruiz: KS State Rep, District 23

Rep. Brandon Woodard: KS State Rep, District 108

Julie Lorenz, Former Secretary, KS Dept. of Transportation

Mainstream Coalition: 100% Candidate Rating

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate

Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council

AFL-CIO Tri-County Labor Council

IBEW Local 124

Equality Kansas 100% Candidate Rating

Campaign website: http://www.julieforlenexa.com

Lenexa City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 1

Courtney Eiterich

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

As a Journeyman Electrician, I have a technical skill set which gives me a unique perspective towards construction projects. I have a degree in Public Administration and teach Municipal Government principles everyday at the high school level. But most importantly, I have the experience on the council for the past four years. I understand the processes and economic development tools, I listen to the residents, and do everything I can to maintain a high quality of life in Lenexa.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1. Economic Development

2. Infrastructure

3. Quality of Life

At the end of this year, Lenexa will complete a new Comprehensive Plan that will outline the future of our city. We have so much growth in the western half of the city and that has been accelerated with the addition of Panasonic. It is important that we prioritize economic development that coincides with our resident-driven Vision 2040 plan. Secondly, infrastructure is the main focus of our Capital Improvement Projects for the next 5 years. Stormwater and Pavement management may not be shiny but imperative to our daily lives and must be maintained properly. Lastly, Lenexans love Lenexa. I intend to continue to listen to our residents, be their voice and ensure that we make decisions that will enhance the quality of life of our residents.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Tri-County Labor, Moms Demand Action, Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus, Realtors Association, Mainstream Coalition 100% rating

Campaign website: courtney.vote

Bethany Griffith

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am a creative thinker with proven leadership experience. I currently serve as the Chair of the Johnson County Library Board, and have served on the board for 7 years. In my time on the board, I have opened Lenexa City Center Library, served on the budget subcommittee since its inception, helped ensure the successful planned transition between County Librarians and, during COVID, was instrumental in getting JCL branches open again after their initial closure in March 2020.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My priorities aren’t what are important. The priorities of the residents of Lenexa and specifically Ward 1 are what is important. What I am hearing from them is they want a lean budget that provides city services and amenities, without waste or excess. They want a property tax roll back, but no decline in capital projects. Lenexans want a variety of housing options, not just massive single family homes and massive apartment complexes. With creativity and public-private partnerships the city can find a way to encourage middle housing options.

Campaign website: http://bethanygriffith.com

WARD 2

Mark Charlton

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

My background is in Architecture, consulting and construction, offers a unique perspective and insight into practical approaches to fostering future developments in undeveloped areas out west, as well infill project in legacy areas of the City. Experience in Architectural design, use of quality materials, construction knowledge and development oversight, will no longer have a voice on our city council with the retirement of our current council member. My election as a new council member will continue this valued resource.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

We can agree that public safety, prudent fiscal management, investing in Lenexa’s neighborhoods past, present and future are of great importance.

I will focus additional importance on planning for cities growth and maintaining the region’s best parks and associated amenities. This includes promoting Lenexa’s exceptional community activities for our citizens and visitors.

I feel Lenexan’s want to get out in public and interact. There is no more proof than the Friday concerts at City Center or farmers market for example. We were all cooped up for a couple of years for the most part and social interaction is a must for many of us. Our community centers, parks system and trails help foster getting outside and interacting with other. Not to mention the packed pickle ball courts.

Campaign website: http://charltonforlenexa.com

Jermaine Jamison

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

First and foremost, I love Lenexa! My knowledge of local government, leadership experience, and passion for civic service make me the most qualified candidate to serve. I am present and have a presence in the community. I am a small business owner, graduate of Leadership Lenexa, served as Co-Chair of Leadership Lenexa, served as Chairman of the Board for the Lenexa Chamber of Commerce in 2022, and I’ve been a youth sports coach in Lenexa for 21 years and counting. I have an authentic desire to make an impact on the lives of others.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top 3 priorities are:

Community Engagement: I believe collaboration and inclusivity are essential to effective community development and growth. I will actively engage with residents, businesses, and community organizations to gather valuable insights, ideas, and feedback. Together, we will shape plans that reflect the needs and aspirations of our growing and diverse community.

Public Safety: Our city is not just a place we call home; it’s a sanctuary where our families flourish, our neighbors thrive, and our dreams are realized. I will do my part to ensure Lenexa remains a resilient community where all residents can live, work, and play without compromise and prioritize public safety by supporting our police and fire departments.

Sustainable Development: Lenexa’s growth must be carefully planned and managed to preserve our unique character and quality of life. I am committed to fostering sustainable development that balances economic progress with environmental stewardship.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Senator Dinah Sykes - Senate Minority Leader, Equality Kansas 92% Candidate Rating, IBEW 124 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers

Campaign website: http://www.jermaineforlenexa.com

WARD 3

Dan Roh

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Have been serving the citizens of Ward 3 and Lenexa as a Council Member since November 2017. During this time I have established myself as an active and engaging member of the Council. I consider myself to be a “servant leader” and have tried to approach the Council Member role with this style of leadership in mind. My business experience/skills in the areas of operations, strategic planning and customer service have also transferred well to the role of a City Council Member. I have been honored and humbled to be a Ward 3 Council Member.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Responsible financial management of taxpayers money and engaging residents. Lenexa is a community where citizens are and want to be engaged.

Public Safety: Adequate funding for the police and fire departments is a top priority.

Public Services: Street maintenance - e.g. snow removal and aggressively providing street repair/replacement as needed; sustaining and improving Lenexa’s parks, trails and pools; and on-going support of infra-structure such as rainwater systems (e.g. culverts). The maintenance work is especially important to the more mature areas of the city like Ward 3.

Economic Development: Continue to pursue and support development projects/initiatives. Ward 3 because of its maturity is about infill projects (open lots or tear down opportunities). These kinds of projects can improve existing businesses and in some cases bring new businesses to Lenexa (jobs!). Footnote... sense 2018 we (the City) have spent over 55% of its capital dollars on the East side of Lenexa. Infrastructure isn’t shiny, but it is critical for sustainability.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mayor Mike Boehm - Current mayor of Lenexa

Mr. Dennis McLaughlin - President of Greystone South Estates Home Owner’s Association - Lenexa

Mr. Steve Ruschill - Boy Scout Leader Troop #428 - Lenexa

Campaign website: http://reelectdanlenexa.com

Chelsea Williamson

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am a longtime Joco resident and have lived in Lenexa for almost 7 years. I have been an attorney in private practice for over 20 years focusing on consumer protection and bankruptcy. I’ve spent my career helping people fight against injustice from big banks and corporations. My job is listening, weighing both sides of an issue, and making a decision that’s in the best interest for my clients. I’ve never shied away from hard work, a healthy debate, or making tough decisions. It’s been over 20 years since an attorney has been on City Council, and I think it’s time to change that.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Affordable housing is becoming an increasing concern for Lenexans. Our residents are getting priced out of their homes, and new residents have very limited housing options. I would like to see more attainable, single-family developments. Secondly, Lenexa’s growth and new developments are exceeding expectations, yet I would like to see more revitalization to older Lenexa neighborhoods. I believe Old Town is just as important as City Center; the city should focus on bringing older neighborhoods back to life. Finally, Lenexans need better communication from their local government. Allowing more options for our residents to have a voice, be heard, and be part of the decision-making process will instill more confidence and transparency in our governing body. I will use more technology and social media to push information out to residents to keep them more informed.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

100% Mainstream Coalition Rating, 100% Equality Kansas Rating, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers - Local 124, Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus, Mom’s Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate, #VOTEPROCHOICE, Johnson County Democratic Women South, Johnson County Democratic Women North, Murphy’s Corner, and Kansas State Representative Susan Ruiz

WARD 4

Michael Elliott

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

First, I have lived in Johnson County most of my life, attended Shawnee Mission schools and lived in Lenexa nearly two decades. I plan to bring fresh ideas to the city council, but those ideas are informed by my long-term knowledge of the city. Second, as a certified real estate appraiser and small business owner I bring expertise to issues such as development, real estate and taxation that the city council deals with often. Third, as a father and grandfather I understand the importance of making sure Lenexa remains a great place to live, work and raise a family.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1) Public Safety- Keeping Lenexa safe should be a primary goal of our city government. This includes a focus on some of the issues that affect the livability of our great neighborhoods - theft, vandalism, speeding and supporting our first responders. Property crime is on the rise regionally and I support the creation of a property crime task force to deal specifically with this issue.

2) Responsible Budget and Tax Policy – Lenexa needs to apply some business sense to the way it budgets. This includes implementing ideas such as zero-based budgeting and other cost containment measures so that Lenexa can continue to provide the great services the city is known for.

3) Responsible development – this includes a renewed focus on redevelopment in older areas of the city like Ward 4. Lenexa cannot prosper if part of the city becomes blighted.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

-The Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City

-Various local elected leaders

-Hundreds of concerned citizens and business owners in Lenexa Ward 4

Campaign website: http://www.elliottforlenexa.com

Christopher Herron

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

My extensive experience in strategic planning, financial management, and project development will be a valuable asset to the Council. I have a proven ability to navigate the complex relationships between government, business, and the community, turning strategic visions into real results. I’m skilled at identifying market opportunities, developing winning strategies, and aligning organizational goals with actionable plans. My financial expertise allows me to make sound investment decisions, manage budgets effectively, and optimize resource allocation. In project development, I am known for my ability to lead and execute projects from start to finish, ensuring timely delivery and meeting quality standards.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

To address the critical issues of attainable housing, infrastructure development, and economic growth, we need a comprehensive approach that creates a virtuous cycle through collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment. For attainable housing, I will champion the Comprehensive Plan’s land use and zoning guidelines to encourage “missing middle” housing options, increasing supply and easing demand-driven price pressures. To enhance infrastructure investments, I will advocate for a forward-thinking approach, considering long-term impacts and maximizing public value. We must carefully plan where and how we build new roads, buildings, and underground assets to minimize environmental impact and maximize efficiency. To stimulate economic development, I will support initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, attract new industries, and provide incentives to existing businesses, particularly those in Old Town. The Council should actively listen to and collaborate with our commercial companies to incorporate their insights and ideas into our decision-making process.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

State Representative Susan Ruiz, State Representative Brandon Woodard, State Senator Dinah Sykes, Tri-County Labor Council, IBEW Local 124

Campaign website: http://herronforlenexa.com

Merriam City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 2

Rose Gerringer

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am the most qualified candidate for Merriam City Council Ward 2 because I have owned a home in Merriam for over 23 years. Being part of the community and raising a family here gives me an appreciation for our past and excitement for our future. I have balanced competing priorities and fluctuating finances as a homeowner. I will ensure that the priorities of safe neighborhoods and streets are not compromised. The residents of Ward 2 deserve a council member that values their input, responds to their inquiries, and operates in an open and transparent manner.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top priorities as Ward 2 City Council Member will be to

1) advocate for responsible reductions to the property tax mill levy,

2) prioritize core services such as community policing and public works,

3) preserve existing neighborhoods, and

4) conduct city business in an open and transparent manner. To accomplish these priorities, I will ensure the budget reflects the wishes of the residents and ask tough questions to carefully discern the long-term impact of any project.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

My campaign is endorsed by the Downtown Merriam Partnership.

Campaign website: http://roseformerriam.com

Whitney Yadrich

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I currently serve as the Ward 2 representative and city council vice president, so I have years of experience, context, relationships, and proof of successful leadership. In the next term, these skills will be critical in making sure the in progress and upcoming projects in Ward 2 are well-planned and benefit our residents now and in the future. I also focus on maintaining a nonpartisan environment to find consensus. I lead with empathy and trust facts to guide decision making, with a deep understanding that the point of local government is not disruption or grandstanding.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Budget & Property Taxes - Merriam is on track to pay off *all* debt service the next few years. This would create a world of opportunities regarding tax relief and grant programs. This year I voted to lower the 2024 property tax mill rate. I would love to make that vote again.

Downtown Economic Development - Encourage new opportunities and preserve existing businesses as Merriam navigates the Upper Turkey Creek floodplain mitigation project with the USACE and the Merriam Drive redesign in downtown Merriam. This area is in Ward 2, and is very important to me.

Sustainability - I want the city to commit to the Regional Climate Action Plan. Merriam has made significant strides in benchmarking and assessing city energy use since I joined the council, but as the car capital of the midwest and an interstate bottleneck I want to see the council push for stricter environmental standards.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mainstream Coalition, AFL-CIO Tri-County Laborers, JoCo Chair Mike Kelly, Equality Kansas, Moms for Kansas, nominated for Best of KC ‘Best Local Politician’

Campaign website: http://whitneyformerriam.com

Olathe Mayor

You can vote for one candidate to serve a four-year term.

John W. Bacon

Incumbent? Yes

John W. Bacon did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

LeEtta Felter

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I’m a public servant, not a politician. I am a seasoned policy-maker with a fresh perspective (I haven’t served 28 + years on the council) with sterling credentials, and a life-long learner. I embrace transparency, welcome diversity, and will work hard to move Olathe from good to GREAT! My service to our community is well rounded a primarily volunteer in nature:

Olathe City Council, Ward 3 (2021-current)

Olathe Public Schools Board of Education (2011-March 2023)

Kansas Children’s Cabinet & Trust Fund Board (2014-current) -Appointed by Governor Brownback (2014), Governor Colyer (2018), and Governor Kelly (2022)

MidAmerica Nazarene University, Board of Trustees (2021-current)

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top three priorities are infrastructure, public safety, and traffic congestion. To move Olathe from good to GREAT in these three areas, I will use my strong leadership skills to lead our city council as we make policy decisions and cast the vision for the future of Olathe, and to support our staff and provide them the resources they need as they implement the vision and strategic plan. I am a coalition builder, and I am known for my steady hand of leadership, calm steadfastness, and diplomacy. I have the ability to be successful in a climate of increasing divisiveness and eroding civility.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Olathe Professional Firefighters Local 2542, and the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City (I have not sought political endorsements, as this is a non-partisan role)

Campaign website: http://www.felter4olathe.com

Olathe City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 1

Chad Carroll

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have worked in the financial industry for over 11 years, and I understand the importance of economic growth, having a robust local economy and serving others. My family chose to make Olathe our home in 2013, and I want to be of service to this wonderful community. During this period of rapid growth in Olathe, I plan to take an innovative approach to leading. I will focus on attracting new businesses, attainable housing, supporting our public safety departments, and being of service to the residents of Ward 1.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My first priority is economic growth, we must attract small and medium-sized businesses to Olathe. I believe by partnering with the Olathe Chamber of Commerce we can continue to revitalize our downtown by adding entertainment, retail, and restaurant options that our residents have eagerly been waiting for. We must ensure it is easy to do business with Olathe to attract new organizations to establish themselves here. Additionally, I will be focusing on attainable housing options to ensure everyone has the opportunity to establish roots and thrive here in Olathe.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mike Kelly, Board Chairman for Johnson County Board of Commissioners

Kansas State Representative Allision Hougland, District 15

Philip Arbuckle, Primary Opponent

Jim Randall, Former Olathe City Councilman and Mayor Pro-Tem

100% Mainstream Coalition Rating

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate designation

100% Equality Kansas RatingIBEW Local 124

Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council

Tri-County Labor Council

Campaign website: http://carrollforolathe.com

Robyn R. Essex

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I first equipped myself with knowledge of Olathe by attending courses like Olathe Civic Academy and the Olathe Public Schools Academy. I then served on the Olathe Planning Commission. I was appointed to fill the remainder of Larry Campbell’s term on the council after he stepped down in December of 2021. I have a unique perspective as I have served in all levels of government including local, state, and federal. I understand the process of how each level works together and how to get things done. My background also includes corporate training, real estate, and public education. I also serve on the local government and transportation committees at the state level and am able to put my local control principles to work as we hear bills that could be considered overreach. I will continue to make Olathe my priority and protect our legacy.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1) Preserve our quality of life by continuing to provide outstanding services to our citizens. Support our first responders so we remain one of America’s safest cities.

2) Infrastructure. Invest strategically in roads to improve traffic flow as we grow. Maintain/replace existing infrastructure to protect our current investments. Promote affordable housing options so anyone can work and live in Olathe.

3) Fiscal responsibility with taxpayer money. Finding that balance between funding the needs of the city without overspending.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Olathe Professional Fire Fighters, IAFF Local 2542.

Former Speaker of the Kansas House and Olathe City Councilman, Ron Ryckman.

Former Kansas Chief Budget Director, State Representative, and Olathe Mayor, Larry Campbell.

Current Ward 2 Olathe City Councilman, Adam Mickelson.

*Other endorsements pending

Campaign website: http://essexforolathe.com

WARD 2

Ryan Campbell

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Having lived, worked, worshipped, and/or volunteered in Olathe for the past 23 years, I have seen the city grow and flourish. I am a 2007 graduate of Leadership Olathe and former member of the Olathe Chamber Finance Committee and Sports Commission. I have built strong relationships with community leaders and understand the needs of our residents and businesses. I will put Olathe first and listen to the needs of the citizens. I am the best candidate for Olathe City Council Ward 2 because I understand the community and will work tirelessly to promote its growth and prosperity.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

PUBLIC SAFETY - Safe communities are important because people and business owners want to establish their families and businesses where they feel safe.

INFRASTRUCTURE - This is the foundation that everything is built on. We need to remain focused on planning for future development and not get behind so we can support continued growth.

FAMILIES / QUALITY OF LIFE - Invest in Downtown and other entertainment areas that not only provide places of enjoyment for Olathe residents but also attracts people from outside of Olathe. Read more about my other priorities

HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT and EDUCATION & EMPLOYMENT at www.campbell4olathe.com/priorities.

REASONABLE & RESPONSIBLE SPENDING - All of the above doesn’t happen without the support of the taxpayers, which is why it is important that we are doing our best to cut back on any waste and make sure we continue to plan ahead to get the best value possible.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Incumbent Ward 2 Councilman Adam Mickelson, Planning Commission Chair Wayne Janner, Current At-Large Councilman Wes McCoy, The Olathe Professional Firefighters Association, KFL. See more at www.campbell4olathe.com/endorsements

Campaign website: http://www.campbell4olathe.com

Dean Vakas

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

As someone who has dedicated my life to serving others and has accumulated a breadth of skills and experience relevant to or in public service, I bring immediate value to the City Council and all Olathens to help keep our City strong and positioned for success. My 30-year military career includes senior leadership and management positions in large-scale logistics and financial operations. I have an added 15 years in the corporate business world, and in higher education management. My MBA and MPA are a powerful combination. I have extensive economic development expertise based on five years chairing Olathe’s Planning Commission.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Responsible Fiscal Leadership, Public Safety, and Modernized Infrastructure tied to Intentional Development are my top three priorities. Municipal spending in all of its forms must be continuously scrutinized. Public Safety translates to Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). It is always job #1. Every Olathean should be and feel personally safe. Infrastructure includes a breadth of activities, but it is key that we proactively improve and expand street infrastructure, rather than playing catch-up to the disadvantage of residents. City-wide decisions must ensure our existing infrastructure is modernized and balanced with the logical expansion of infrastructure in advance of growth.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Homebuilders Association of Greater KC, 100% Mainstream Coalition Rating, Moms Demand Action, IBEW 124, Tri-County Labor Council, Professional Firerfighters Local 2542

Campaign website: https://www.deanvakasforolathe.com

AT-LARGE

Wayne Janner

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

In my experience as a business and community leader, I’ve consistently provided visionary leadership and a problem-solving approach to the organizations I’ve served. Over the last 29 years, I have been a licensed Realtor in Olathe. In 2004, I founded Olathe’s Keller Williams franchise, our area’s largest residential real estate firm. Over the last 3 ½ years, I’ve served on the City’s Planning Commission, holding the position of Chair for the past year and a half. I’ll combine these areas of expertise in the role of City Council member to move our city forward.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My first priority is cutting the tax rate without reducing City services. One way would be to increase the Property Tax Rebate with expanded conditions of a higher home price limit with age and income requirements. This is designed to provide relief the the retired community that are on fixed incomes. Secondly, would be providing Visionary Leadership to Downtown Olathe and the development of a walkable entertainment district. This would have the residual effect of attracting more retail and housing options in the area. Thirdly, would be a closer look at improving traffic patterns in the city. Specifically a focus on areas where safety is compromised and advocate for an accelerated schedule for improvements.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors, Kansans For Life, Olathe Mayor John Bacon, Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden, Olathe City Council members Kevin Gilmore, Adam Mickelson and Robyn Essex, Kansas State Representative Adam Thomas, Former Kansas State Senator and Former Olathe City Council Member Karin Brownlee, JOCO Commissioners Michael Ashcraft and Charlotte O’Hara, Former Kansas State Senator Julia Lynn, JOCO Board of Trustees member Mark Hamill

Campaign website: http://www.wayne4olathe.com

Matthew Schoonover

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I’m a product of Olathe. I’ve seen our City grow over the three decades I’ve lived here, and I hope to help position it for continued growth.I’m invested in Olathe, having opened my law firm here in 2020. As a business owner in our City, I want to see us continue to develop.But most importantly, I’m a father of two young children. As we tackle the issues we’re facing, we should do so in a way that positions us to pass down a City that our children will be happy to call home.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Among my priorities for the City of Olathe are:

1. Encourage small businesses growth to bring jobs and tax dollars to the City. To accomplish this, I’ll work to develop small business incubators where companies can access tools and resources to develop their client base. These incubators--spread across the City--will help encourage businesses to open and will bring jobs to Olathe.

2. Promoting investments in affordable housing. I’ll promote ways that our City can responsibly incentivize the development and redevelopment of our more established areas, to create safe and affordable housing options.

3. Improve Olathe’s infrastructure and traffic congestion, including that caused by the railroad crossings. We need to work with our state and federal partners to identify appropriate funding and to develop creative ways to complete these important projects.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

I’m proud to have earned 100% ratings from the Mainstream Coalition and Equality Kansas, as well as being named a Moms Demand Gun Sense Candidate of Distinction. I’m endorsed by Johnson County Chairman Mike Kelly, Kansas Representative Allison Hougland, and former Olathe Mayor Pro-Tem Jim Randall, as well as by various trade unions.

Campaign website: http://schoonover4olathe.com

Overland Park City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 1

Holly Grummert

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am a homeowner, a passionate community member, and a mom that wants to see Overland Park remain the type of city my children’s generation will want to live.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My number one priority continues to be the creation of more housing types for our residents. I’m currently in support of a proposed pilot program for accessory dwelling units in Ward 1. I also support planning for a variety of housing options in our Comprehensive Plan and will continue to push for more affordable options in new development deals.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mainstream Coalition 100% rating, Moms Demand Action, Tri-County Labor

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/HollyforOP

Carol R. Merritt

Incumbent? No

Carol R. Merritt did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

WARD 2

Jameia Haines

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Overland Park has been home for 20 years. As a member of this business community, I understand the importance of attracting residents, business and talent. My long history of civic involvement in Overland Park shows my dedication to our city including:

Overland Park Board of Zoning Appeals, Member & Past Chair

Overland Park Neighborhood Executive Committee Member

Overland Park Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee, served two terms

FrameworkOP, Housing Choices Advisory Team Member

Overland Park Rotary, Past-President

Oak Park Homes Association, President

Honorary Lifetime Member of Kansas PTA

Asbury Children’s Center, Board Member

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Safe and Healthy Neighborhoods - I will prioritize public safety by supporting our police, fire and emergency medical services along with necessary partnerships to assist them in their important work. I support continued funding of mental health related initiatives such as the Crisis Action Team and other innovative solutions.

Infrastructure and Connectivity - I support continued efforts to decrease our reliance on chip seal. The recent increase in infrastructure funding will allow for necessary improvements to our aging streets, sidewalks, traffic flows, stormwater, green infrastructure, bike paths and more. This maintenance will improve safety and ensure a well-connected Overland Park.

Government Accountability - People are struggling. It will be my priority to make the most of their tax dollars and work to maintain a low property tax rate. Striking a balance between adequately meeting the city’s service needs while preserving a healthy financial condition is key.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Paul Lyons who has held this seat for four terms has endorsed my campaign. Paul has been a dedicated leader in our city, and it is my honor to have his support.

Campaign website: http://haines4op.com

Drew Mitrisin

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Service with results. I started my career by doing a year of national volunteer service with AmeriCorps in an historically disadvantaged community. That experience led me to pursue a career in public policy, including my work today at Burns & McDonnell. I work every day on the region’s most important transportation and water infrastructure projects and policies, establish workforce development programs, and secure millions of dollars in grant funding for cities like Overland Park. With the City investing $250 million in new revenue over the next 10 years on infrastructure projects, it’s time to put an infrastructure professional on council.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Infrastructure Innovation. Voters approved the new sales tax revenue with a clear message to spend those tax dollars as effectively as possible. I’ve spent my career working on infrastructure projects and know how to deliver projects that meet the community’s expectations by improving maintenance and reducing chip seal and adding connectivity and increasing our multimodal options.

Strong, Safe Neighborhoods. Promote safe, walkable, desirable neighborhoods by investing in public safety, including the mental health co-responder program, investing in our parks, and partnering with our great Shawnee Mission School District schools.

Housing. To serve all residents, Overland Park must offer a portfolio of housing options and a path to ownership. With property assessments rising drastically, we also must keep property taxes as low as possible, which includes implementing a property tax relief program similar to several existing programs in our neighboring cities.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Overland Park Ward 2 Council Member Melissa Cheatham

Johnson County Commission Chair Mike Kelly

Johnson County Commissioner Janee Hanzlick

Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes

State Senator Ethan Corson

Representative Lindsay Vaughn (HD-22)

Representative Heather Meyer (HD-29)

Former Overland Park City Council Member Neil Sader

Former Overland Park City Council Member Tim Owens

Former Overland Park City Council Member Jay Lehnertz

Former Overland Park City Council Member Max Gordon

Tri-County Labor Council of Eastern Kansas | AFL-CIO

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 124

100% Rating from Mainstream Coalition

100% Rating from Equality Kansas

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate

Climate Cabinet

Run for Something

New Politics

Campaign website: http://www.drew4op.com

WARD 3

Richard Borlaza

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I believe my deep-rooted connection to the community makes me uniquely qualified to represent Ward 3. I volunteered for an organization called KC Tenants which advocated for affordable housing and fair tenants’ rights. I also volunteered for an organization called Tikkun KC which is very similar to Habitat For Humanity.

Housing is an important issue to our residents in Overland Park and we deserve someone who will tackle this issue head-on and put the people’s interests first. I don’t take contributions from developers and I think this further solidifies my commitment to tackling the hard challenges in Overland Park.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My biggest priorities focus on housing and infrastructure. I’ve spoken to countless residents while knocking on doors and the consensus is their concern of rising rent and skyrocketing property taxes. I would work with our developers to promote affordable missing middle housing. This will give people a variety of housing styles and I believe this is a gentler approach to growth as opposed to the luxury apartments I see being built in my ward. To address our residents’ concern about property taxes I would propose a property tax rebate on city property taxes to those that qualify.

Regarding infrastructure, I know our residents aren’t happy with chip seal as evidenced by their approval for an increase in sales tax. We need to continue to do what we can to decrease our dependence on chip seal and I think we’re doing that by continuing to replace asphalt with concrete.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mom’s Demand Action, Mainstream Coalition, Linda Featherston, Kansas State Representative

Campaign website: http://richardforop.com

Thomas Carignan

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

On Council I am the Chairman of the Finance, Administration and Economic Development Committee and a member of Public Safety. Having a leadership position on Council has given me additional insight into how the City operates and regular strategic conversations with city staff. In addition to my first term on council, I have served on multiple governance boards of non profit and community organizations including the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Greater Kansas City and Health Forward Foundation. Professionally, I have spent 20 years in banking and financial services.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My highest priority is to maintain the strength and safety of our residential neighborhoods. Overland Park was built on residential neighborhoods and with school age children I want them to grow up in a safe and stable environment. I will continue to support our police, fire, mental health co-responders; the things keeping us all safe. Additionally, by investing in our streets, sidewalks, curbs, parks and amenities residents are able to truly connect with each other, building and strengthening the community we all call home. I have, and will continue to, advocate for a continuous review of budget expenditures and the close monitoring of revenue collection. I have already begun conversations with our City Manager asking for a budget model that includes both a half and one full mill reduction in the levy. I will work with my fellow Councilmembers advocating for appropriate tax relief for all residents of Overland Park.

Campaign website: http://thomasccarignan.com

WARD 5

Faris Farassati

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I respect anyone who wants to serve with honor. For 6 years I have focused my efforts on fiscal responsibility, neighborhoods, and improving the quality of life (farisforop.com). When collaboration was needed, I was ready. When dissent was needed, I was not shy to do that to protect my constituents. This is accomplished by thinking independently, which, as a scientist, I am trained for it. I am a “reformer” from within, beyond blind partisanship, or loyalty to the status quo. Lastly, one of the main differences between my opponent and myself is the independence from lobbyists money in my campaign.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

These are the priorities of my constituents. I have accomplished important milestones towards all of them but the work continues:

1-Stop wasteful spending and tax giveaways to undeserving projects.

2-Stop property tax increases: Accept Revenue Neutral Rate (RNR) authorized by the state.

3-Refund food sales tax to provide some relief to families.

4-Promote developments that do not harm the quality of life for neighborhoods.

5-Stop the “apartment invasion”: Respect the master plan of the city.

6-Eliminate chip seal completely within a reasonable time-frame (NOT in 50 Years as proposed).

7-Support the environment by implementing policies based on science, not partisan politics.

8-Support first responders: increase their compensation, respect them and increase their college tuition assistance. AND

9-Allow resident-focused decision making by reducing the influence of lobbying entities. For example, let’s have a resident-based focus group on budget. It’s your money, you need to know how it will be spent.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

The people of Overland Park!

Campaign website: http://www.farisforop.com

Inas Younis

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

The best public servant has the best motives. I am grounded in this community, and I have labored in the trenches as a lifelong volunteer, a community reporter, and a mother to two disabled children, now adults, who have reaped great benefits from calling Overland Park home. My motives are founded on gratitude not grievance. I have served on numerous community boards and worked in non-profit spaces. I am uniquely qualified, not just in terms of my dedication, energy, and focus, but in terms of my knowledge of city affairs.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

I am eager to restore the collegial atmosphere of years past and nostalgic for a future that centers around residents, community, and family. I am committed to supporting our public safety departments by ensuring that they are adequately staffed and have access to world-class equipment and training. Public safety is the one area where perception matters. I want residents to not only be safe but to also feel safe. I am committed to the elimination of wasteful spending and to the implementation of our infrastructure advisory board recommendations and I intend to take every practical measure available to us in favor of reducing our reliance on chip seal. I am dedicated to improving our capacity to provide more timely constituent services that connect citizens with the services they seek and preserving the overall aesthetic and visual appeal of our city.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

I am proudly endorsed by our current ward 5 council-member Sam Passer, as well as a number of other community leaders from across the political spectrum. You can view some of my other endorsements by visiting my website at inas4op.com

Campaign website: http://inas4op.com

WARD 6

Scott Hamblin

Incumbent? Yes

Scott Hamblin did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Chris Newlin

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

This election allows residents to compare the recent 4-year records of both candidates. I prioritize promptly addressing residents’ concerns, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. Actively participating in committee and council meetings, I remain present and accountable to the community. With a proactive approach to problem-solving, I offer alternative solutions and propose actionable ideas to achieve our shared goals. My track record demonstrates responsiveness, dedication, and a focus on results. As a result, I am uniquely qualified to serve Ward 6, effectively representing its interests and fulfilling the responsibilities of this position.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Infrastructure: I’m fully committed to enhancing our city’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and vital facilities. This commitment extends beyond physical improvements; it’s about nurturing economic growth, bolstering public safety, and elevating residents’ quality of life.

Public Safety: Ensuring residents’ safety is my top priority. I’m dedicated to providing law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency responders with the resources they need. It’s not just about allocation; I’m enthusiastic about promoting proactive measures, like crime prevention programs and community engagement, to create a secure and inclusive city.

Community Engagement: I firmly believe in the power of an engaged community. That’s why I’m passionate about fostering active community participation. Through regular listening sessions, we can collaboratively address concerns, clarify processes, and nurture an open dialogue that builds trust and strengthens our incredible community. Together, we can make more informed decisions and continue to enhance our city.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Residents of Ward 6

Campaign website: http://chris-newlin.com

Prairie Village City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 2

Inga Selders

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I’ve called Prairie Village home for 36 years.

Before joining the Council, I led efforts to rebuild my neighborhood’s electrical infrastructure and repair sidewalks. As a Council member, I’ve worked with staff and Council to decrease the mil levy rate, expand exterior grant and property tax programs, and build a LEED platinum Public Works building.

During the pandemic, I worked with Council and staff to provide supplies and resources to our community. I’ve also worked with residents on a number of projects, including new sidewalks, pedestrian beacon lights, 4-way stop intersections, traffic calming measures, and modified construction hours.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1. I’ll continue to prioritize public safety in Prairie Village by providing our police and public works departments with the resources, support, and equipment they need to keep our community safe. I’m grateful for the hard work of these departments in creating a safe and sound community.

2. I’m committed to trying to keep Prairie Village affordable so that middle-class families can continue to live in our community. I’ll do this by working to expand our exterior grant and property tax programs, exploring new programs such as land trusts, and collaborating with elected officials at all levels of government to advocate for policies that relieve the burden on residents.

3. Prairie Village is a warm and welcoming community. I’ll work to nurture this by expanding opportunities for residents to come together. This is accomplished by working with area organizations, businesses, and leaders to support community events, town halls, and activities.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

100% candidate rating from Mainstream Coalition

100% candidate rating from Equality Kansas KC

Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus

Campaign website: http://www.ingaselders.com

Edward Boersma (write-in)

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

My degree and education in Mechanical Engineering has trained me to solve problems and effectively communicate. Throughout my career I have been fortunate to work and collaborate with people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, interests, and perspectives. I have enjoyed successfully partnering and working with people in multiple career fields including oil & gas, software development, commercial real estate finance & development and entrepreneurial enterprises. I believe my background and experience has provided me with the training and qualifications necessary to serve my neighbors and be a strong member on the Prairie Village City Council.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top three priorities are to:

1)Protect and preserve single-family zoned property rights,

2)Communicate and problem solve for Prairie Village,

3)Prioritize fiscal responsibility & transparency. To be successful in life you must communicate effectively. A safe, single-family community, that is built for everyone is the reason people move to Prairie Village. Increasing density in a very dense city does not solve a problem, it creates new ones. Working with the city to responsibility budget and avoid unnecessary expenditures is critical to the ongoing success of Prairie Village.

Campaign website: https://www.edward4pv.com/

WARD 3

Bonnie Limbird

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have served in various volunteer and leadership positions within our local community and the Greater Kansas City area. This includes serving on Kansas state boards as public members to both the KS State Board of Technical Professions and the KS State Library Board, as President for the IIDA MidAmerica Chapter, holding executive committee board positions for the Johnson County Library Foundation and Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce Centurions Leadership Program, and being a founding member of the Belinder Elementary PTA Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

Some of the transferable skills I’ve gained over these years include: surveying stakeholders, finding commonality & consensus building; strategic plan creation; volunteer management; evaluation, modification & establishment of community programs; and fund development & community engagement.

I have 3+ years on council so far gaining experience and city governance knowledge, reaching out, proactively informing, and listening to constituent feedback to inform my actions for our City.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Represent the majority of my constituents with their priorities including a possible community center, the housing inventory discussion, and various neighborhood-specific initiatives ongoing.

Continue investing in our infrastructure for the health, safety, and welfare of our residents, staff, and visitors and to ensure Prairie Village is viable for the next 75 years as a destination and desirable place to live, work, and play.

Respect and support our City staff and police department.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus endorsement

AFL-CIO Tri-County Labor Council union endorsement

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate designation

Mainstream Coalition 100% rating

Equality Kansas 100% rating

Campaign website: http://www.bonnieforpv.com

Lori Sharp

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am a lifelong learner. I grew up in a small “village”, similar to Prairie Village, so I know the treasure of having good schools, safe neighborhoods, and public parks. I am not a partisan activist and do not put party politics over the needs of my city. I have no higher political ambition. I went to the University of Michigan, received my Masters at the Texas Medical Center, and PhD from KU. I raised a family. and balanced an occupational therapy career. I have worked in the inner city, for Missouri First Steps, and with Sly James’ early language program. I will focus on truly local issues, listen to PV residents, and work towards a solution for everyone.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1. Protecting the current zoning rules that have worked for 70 years and have created this wonderful community and neighborhoods. The current process works and brings everyone to the table with an equal voice. I am against opening the door to outside developers and corporations and allowing them to have more voice then the current residents.

2. Critically looking at the budget that has increased over 40% in the past four years. Spending and taxes are problems. Our city is becoming unaffordable because we have a spending problem. I will dissect the budget and only spend on city issues, such as infrastructure, parks, safety and other critical needs.

3. Focusing on “city issues” bottom line. City politics is city business. We need to focus on trash pickup, the power grid, streets, sidewalks, parks, and safety. That’s it. All this other spending takes away from our great city and our living experience.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

I am an independent voice and am running to represent my neighbors. The endorsement that I care about the most is the one from Ward 3 residents who have welcomed me with open arms as I have knocked on their doors and visited with them. I do have the endorsement of former Kansas City Mayor Sly James and past members of the Prairie Village City council. But I am an independent voice listening to the residents and bringing back true “city focused politics”. City Council is and must remain nonpartisan. On November 7 the ballot will not even say party affiliation and it shouldn’t.

Campaign website: http://www.lsharp4pv.com

WARD 4

Tyler Agniel

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have 17 years of diverse leadership experience in the hospitality industry and currently operate a Hilton hotel in Overland Park, while serving on the JCCC Hospitality Management Advisory Committee. I have proudly served on the Prairie Fields HOA board for the past 11 years - eight as Treasurer. I am confident my corporate leadership experiences, managing successful hotels, will benefit the council and the residents of PV. I will protect R-1 zoning, which makes up more than 95% of Prairie Village and most families’ greatest investment.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

(1) Forward Thinking Fiscal Responsibility: Ensure the city is spending money like it is their own and protecting the value of our PV homes.

(2) Attentive Listening To Get Results: Seek answers to your questions, respond to your concerns and vote with your best interests in mind, not my own.

(3) Prioritize keeping our streets safe and fully fund a well-maintained infrastructure to preserve our quality of life. Maintain and enhance PV’s green space and public parks for generations to enjoy.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

I have not solicited endorsements but am humbled to have the support of many Prairie Village residents, past elected officials, current and former Prairie Fields HOA directors and most importantly, my family!

Campaign website: http://www.tylerforpv.com

Piper Reimer

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

My professional background is in nursing. As a team member tasked with achieving the best possible outcome for each individual facing complex challenges, I am a careful listener, a thoughtful contributor, and a determined advocate skilled at nuanced analysis. I am capable of identifying and attending to both short and long term goals while leveraging the talents of the team to attain the best possible result. I have gained tremendous knowledge and insight as I have diligently served the residents of Prairie Village for the last 4 years and hope to have the opportunity to continue this important work for 4 more.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My priorities continue to be to provide the foundational high quality services the residents of Prairie Village have always expected and count on: beautiful and generous parks, superior roads and infrastructure, excellent service from skilled, responsive staff and reliable, conservative, transparent fiscal management. To do this, I rely on communication and guidance from residents to inform my choices as I represent them, as well as seeking expert knowledge from the city staff and professional consultants. I will work for and with the community members to ensure Prairie Village continues to be the city they desire to live in at all stages of life. My goal is that Prairie Village continues to be the community you love, and the place you want to own your home, raise your family, conduct business and retire in.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Prairie Village municipal elections are importantly non-partisan, and, as such, I have sought/accepted no endorsements for my campaign.

Campaign website: http://piperforpv.com

WARD 5

Ciara Chaney

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

My professional training and experience in mediating conflict, recognizing different points of view, and making sure every voice is heard, makes me the most qualified City Council candidate. Currently, the City Council lacks proven practical HR experience, which is my professional background. Labor costs are the biggest expense to the City budget, making my background and knowledge essential for our community moving forward. Real-world, professional experience, combined with my perspective as a small local business owner, mother, and community advocate will inform my contributions to the City’s policies. My leadership will help guide Prairie Village for current and future generations.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Support the building blocks of our city that impact residents most: roads, parks, schools, and local businesses.

Prioritize public safety by ensuring our police and fire departments have the resources they need to serve our city. Prairie Village is one of the safest communities in Kansas and I intend on keeping it that way.

Promote economic growth and diversity, while also preserving the unique charm of our neighborhoods and community.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Run For Something, Moms Demand Action, Equality Kansas, Tri-County Labor Council

Campaign website: https://ciaraforpv.com/

Nicholas Reddell

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have ran for public office in the past as that has taught me many different lessons about public office. I am also involved in many local organizations like my kids PTA, and other organizations. I have held many leadership positions and feel that I would be that for our community.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Responsible spending for the city while maintaining our current infrastructure , maintaining current zoning, providing residents with options to vote on large ticket items

Who has endorsed your campaign?

This is a non partisan position so I have my campaign that way.

Campaign website: http://nickreddellforkansas.com

WARD 6

Ian Graves

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Addressing the needs and concerns of residents and the city in a principled, data-driven way. I rely on expert knowledge and numbers-based research to direct resident-first policy goals for the city. Prairie Village is at a crossroads with rising cost of housing, property values, and taxes. It’s time we apply the facts to making our city more vibrant and for everyone, not just the few, as we move into the future.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1. Continuing to maintain our high quality of city operations by investing in our city staff, infrastructure, and public spaces. Explore ways to improve all of these via resident feedback and betterment via staff study.

2. Investigate how to keep Prairie Village open for new residents of all stripes. Our housing continues to drift out of reach for existing and potential residents. We need to understand how governmental regulation is contributing to this problem via our zoning codes. Our restrictive zoning codes are exacerbating our teardown problem and leading to the creation of bigger, out-of-scale, and less-attainable housing.

3. Finish a proposal for a new civic center to go to the ballot for final approval by the residents. Such a civic center would include a new library branch building as well as a recreation center to replace the aging YMCA facility near City Hall and the city pool.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Tri-County Labor Council

IBEW Local 124

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate distinction

MainStream Coaliation 100% rating

Campaign website: https://gravesforpv.com/

Kelly Wyer

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I will vote NO on rezoning R1 neighborhoods. I will focus on better communication and fiscal responsibility. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management & Administration from The University of Kansas and I am a full-time working mom. I understand the issues our city is facing and I want what is best for Prairie Village, KS.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Our current city council has fallen into a “group think” mindset. They are not listening to their constituents and they aren’t questioning one another. I will listen with an open mind and will debate the issues with other council members. I hope to remove rezoning from the city’s comprehensive plan. I want for the people to be able to vote on changes or additions to the city that will be of major impact to them and their households. Examples include voting on a new city hall and civic center. The city is ramping up to spend a lot of our tax dollars while the people are struggling to make ends meet. I would also like to establish regular meetings with your council person so I can hear your voice and what you think.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

I have not pursued any endorsements to my campaign for city council. City council is and must remain non-partisan. Please remember when you vote on November 7th that a political party affiliation will not be listed on the ballot. City council is elected to serve the people, not a political agenda or ideology. If elected, I want to hear what the people think and will offer an independent voice on council and centrist leadership.

Campaign website: http://kellyforpv.com

Roeland Park City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 1

Jan Faidley

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Since first being elected in 2019, I have overseen the completion of Roe2020 and supported improvements to R Park (inclusive playground, accessible restrooms, new pavilion). I advocated for the successful redesign of the city’s aquatic center and a major remodel of the community center. I also worked to strengthen the city’s non-discrimination ordinance and to codify safer “complete streets” for all users. I am a 25-year resident of Roeland Park and know this community well. With over 20 years of non-profit board experience, I have the skills necessary to build consensus and govern effectively.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1) Support ongoing improvements to city parks and the community centerThe new Nall Park master plan will include resident input and professional design services. Phase 1 of the community center remodel is almost complete. Phase 2 will follow in 2025.

2) Attract new businesses and support existing small businesses within the cityThe city’s Project RISE (Recruit, Identify, Support and Encourage), in partnership with Northeast Johnson County Chamber of Commerce, is laser focused on making our business community as vibrant and diverse as our population.

3) Address the crisis of affordable housing through collaboration with regional leaders and non-profitsI will continue to support the funding of a property tax rebate to residents who qualify as well as minor and major home improvement grants. Assistance to residents from the city’s Neighbors Helping Neighbors program will shore up an aging (but more affordable) housing stock.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus

Mainstream (100% rating)

Mom’s Demand Action

Neighbors for a Better Roeland Park

Mike Kelly

Equality KS

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/jan4roelandpark/

Stephanie Marriott

Incumbent? No

Wat specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Currently I am the Accounting Director for an advertising agency. I have more than 20 years in management, advertising, and accounting. Being a single mom, I’ve had to work within a budget and be able to juggle several priorities all the same time. Giving back to this city, wanting to do everything i can to help take care of my neighbors, is very important to me. Running for city council is my way of being able to help take care of my neighbors on a bigger scale. We live in a wonderful place and all of my skills and hard work, I know we can make it better.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My top two priorities go hand in hand. Lowering taxes by working with the R.I.S.E project to advertise and bring more businesses to Roeland Park. The new businesses will help bring in tax revenue this should help share the burden and ease neighbors taxes. These taxes are so hard on all of us especially on our elderly with a fixed income. My 3rd priority is to work on affordable housing. As a single mother when i purchased my home in 2004, I know how important it is to have affordable options.

WARD 2

Benjamin Dickens

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

During my first term as a council member and council president, I was able to lower our mill levy, close on the sale of the Rocks ensuring a new local restaurant and retail shops as well as affordable housing, renovated our city pool and community center, approved free legal care under our NDO to people who are being discriminated against, obtained new playground equipment and surface so kids of all abilities can enjoy our parks, and made Roeland Park the first in state to ban conversion therapy.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

I want to take a new and more proactive approach to improve the business district on Roe Blvd by looking into using Industrial Revenue Bonds. They are debt free for the city and tax exempt for developers. IRB will help entice new business owners to join Roeland Park.

Additionally, I want to focus on truly affordable senior housing and revitalizing our current housing stock for new families through the use of city funds we have set aside for struggling homeowners.

It’s also important to remain focused on improving public transit by updating bus stops and encouraging more green transportation by adding bike lanes.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Neighbors for a Better Roeland Park

Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/BenjaminDickensRoelandPark

Haile Sims

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I am dedicated to making Roeland Park better. I am a graduate of the Roeland Park Citizens’ Academy. I serve on the Planning Commission and I am Chair of the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee. I also served on the Police Policy Committee. I have already demonstrated my commitment to Roeland Park and I will continue that dedication while serving on City Council.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

First, I will advocate for a more businesses in Roeland Park to provide more jobs, services and opportunities to our residents and visitors. Next, I will ensure our police and first responders have all the tools they need to continue to service our neighborhoods. I will continue to promote events that bring the police and community together making our city safer for everyone. Finally, I will ensure Roeland Park continues to be a leader in the metro and Kansas as a safe and welcoming community for everyone.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Neighbors for a Better Roeland Park, Krimson PAC

Campaign website: http://hailesims.com

Shawnee Mayor

You can vote for one candidate to serve a four-year term.

Mike Kemmling

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

As a small business owner and homeowner, I’m fully invested in Shawnee. I go to church here and send my kids to school here. I’ve been representing the people of Ward 2 for the last 10 years and would like to continue doing that for the entire city.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

I’d like to continue to lower the mill levy while maintaining essential services. I’d continue to fight for appropriate development while defending our single-family neighborhoods from overly dense apartments. I’d also stick with my policy of standing against corporate welfare and handouts to developers.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Senator Mike Thompson, Northwest Johnson County Republican Party

Campaign website: http://www.mikekemmlingformayor.com

Michael (Mickey) Sandifer

Incumbent? No

Michael (Mickey) Sandifer did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Shawnee City Council

You can vote for one candidate per ward to serve a four-year term.

WARD 1

Tammy Thomas

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I’ve called Shawnee home for 28 years, understanding our values and what we take pride in. My relationship with Shawnee predates the existence of I-435, reaching all the way back to the 1960’s. Our 3 children grew up in USD232. Coming from a family of 7, I know first hand that every penny counts. Professionally, I have served Kansas in a variety of ways - USD 232 Board of Education, Statewide Long Term Care Liaison, DCF KC Regional Director, and currently KS State Director - Safe Families for Children. I understand how to achieve growth while maintaining a budget, large or small. I also understand what it takes to find common ground when natural disagreements arise.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Priorities:

-Appropriately staff and equip First Responders (FD and PD), and Public Works (roads/pipes, etc)

-Continue to lower our taxes through appropriate mill levy reductions and reduce corporate welfare/incentives

Actionable Steps:

-Continue to take recommendation from leadership to monitor and support needs for First Responders and Mental Health Responders through staffing, pay scale, and necessary equipment

-Continue to listen and understand leadership needs to appropriately staff and equip our Public Works department

-Continue to understand the increased cost of living on our residents. We must responsibly balance decreasing mill levy and maintaining excellence in city services

Who has endorsed your campaign?

KFL, Northwest JOCO Republicans, and Senator Mike Thompson

Campaign website: http://tammythomasforshawnee.com

Sierra Whitted

Incumbent? No

Wat specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have been a manager of successful teams, president of a professional organization, vice president of an animal rescue, and an organizer in marches and community service activities. While I am proud of those accomplishments, I would not have achieved them alone. My guiding tenet is simple: treat others with respect. By listening, learning, and discussing with respect we can build upon the strong foundations Shawnee already exemplifies and repair the issues that detract from long-term success. I’m willing to listen and learn from our constituents, staff, and council so that I can be a representative they deserve.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Infrastructure - Make sure road/bike lane, stormwater, and other repair projects are finished timely and correctly for our residents’ safety.

Fiscal Sustainability - Our current financial plan that reduced mill levies was estimated to leave Shawnee in a fiscal deficit in the next 10 years. We must course correct to protect our future. I want to maintain our strong financial foundation including our AAA bond rating and department accreditations by retaining our valuable knowledgeable staff who provide numerous services to Shawnee.

Our Community - Keep Shawnee a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive community that will attract additional business and residents.I plan to achieve this by working with our skilled staff to honor the Achieve Shawnee Comprehensive Plan crafted by citizens. I will bring trust and respect to the City Council so we can attract beneficial development, retain staff, and keep Shawnee a thriving community.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Johnson County Democratic Women

Johnson County Democratic Party

IBEW 124Tri County Labor Council

Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council

Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors

Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus

Campaign website: https://sierraforshawnee.com/

WARD 2

Eric Jenkins

Incumbent? Yes

Eric Jenkins did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Jeanie Murphy

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Experience in management, personnel, budget, mediation and being a trained listener. My experience as a chaplain mean I’ve worked with people from all walks of life, and listen without an agenda. I offer respect and collaboration.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Attainable housing for all, whether just starting out, raising a family, or retired and ready to downsize.

Returning nonpartisan governance to the Council with collaboration between the Council, the city staff, and the people.

Maintaining our safety and infrastructure while controlling taxes.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Tri-County Labor Council, state Sens. Ethan Corson and Dinah Sykes, Johnson County Commission Chair Mike Kelly, Mainstream Coalition 100% score

Campaign website: http://revjeanieforshawnee.com

WARD 4

Laurel Burchfield

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have the leadership experience to restore trust in our city council, honor our comprehensive plan, and make Shawnee a welcoming place for everyone. I’ve worked in nonpartisan environments to find funding and policy solutions for complicated issues like transportation and housing, and I employ communications and coalition-building skills to create and strengthen partnerships. Council members must be open to diverse perspectives, welcome new opportunities, and work together to improve residents’ lives. Our current council lacks that ability. I want Shawnee to be a home for future generations to thrive, and that requires a change in our current city council.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

1. Build a thriving economy and community for future generations: We must balance our budget without jeopardizing our future. I will make sure that we’re saying ‘yes’ to the right projects and champion developments that align with the thousands of residents who helped create our comprehensive plan, Achieve Shawnee.

2. Ensure Shawnee is welcoming to everyone: I will listen to residents and business owners to ensure our city is open and accessible for everyone who wants to call Shawnee home. I will prioritize expanding housing opportunities so that families, aging adults, and young professionals can afford to live where they work and play.

3. Return to good governance: Shawnee has lost too many high level city staff and dedicated volunteers in recent years. We must improve the culture and practice of respecting and listening to city employees and all of our residents so that we can rebuild trust in our community.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Mike Kelly, Johnson County Board of Commissioners Chair

Susan Ruiz, KS State Rep

Tri-County Labor Council

Greater Kansas City Women’s Political Caucus

Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate distinction

Mainstream Coalition, 100% rating

Equality Kansas, 100% rating

Campaign website: http://www.laurelforshawnee.com/

Megan Warner

Incumbent? No

Wat specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have lived in Shawnee for over 30 years and have extensive knowledge of the city and its history. I run a small business out of my home in Shawnee, writing commercial real estate appraisals. I have experience with development, construction costs, feasibility analysis, valuing tax incentives, and zoning ordinances. I believe my experience will bring needed expertise to the council.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

I am running on three platforms. First, it is important to residents to lower our tax bills. We can keep our mill levy as low as possible while maintaining our excellent city city services. Second, we need to fully support and fund our public safety officers. Third, we need to preserve our safe single-family neighborhoods. People move to Shawnee for its small-town, community feel, and that tradition should continue.

Campaign website: http://meganwarnerforshawnee.com

Spring Hill City Council

You can vote for up to three of the following at-large candidates to serve a four-year term.

Doug D’Albini

Incumbent? No

Doug D’Albini did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Kristin Feeback

Incumbent? No

Kristin Feeback did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Chris W. Leaton

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I previously served 16 years on the city council where I worked with the governing body to complete projects like the Aquatic Center, Veterans Park, and the Civic Center renovation. I am a licensed civil and structural engineer in 11 states with over 27 years of experience in construction, engineering, and manufacturing. My experience includes civil and structural design for buildings, industrial facilities, public infrastructure, water and wastewater treatment plants. I have a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Kansas State University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri – Kansas City with an urban policy emphasis.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Continued city planning, community connectivity and trails, and improving infrastructure (streets, parks, sewers, etc.).

Maintaining growth while keeping community character will be essential. I will encourage developers to provide connected, community-driven zoning that produces assorted housing options across income levels required to prevent the “missing middle.” I will advocate for increased housing options that attract and keep employees needed by businesses and schools while also allowing aging residents to stay in their homes longer. Housing options encourages continued growth critical to attracting businesses that generate tax revenue to fund city needs.

I will work to update the parks plan to prioritize the needs for parks, sidewalks, and trails. I will propose a city-wide sidewalk and trail program with the objective to tie north and south Spring Hill together within four years. I will also advocate for a sidewalk program that provides dedicated annual funding for needed repairs and replacement.

Who has endorsed your campaign?

Former Mayor Steven Ellis

Campaign website: http://www.voteleaton.com

Chip VanHouden

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

I have served on the Spring Hill city council for the past 20 months. I have a masters in management and have lived in Spring Hill since 2010. It has been my pleasure to represent Spring Hill citizens and look forward to serving them another term.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

My focus is improving streets and infrastructure without raising mill levy (home property tax). I’m also interested in creating and implementing a “connectivity plan” for Spring hill sidewalks and trail system.

Chad Young

Incumbent? Yes

Chad Young did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

Westwood City Council

You can vote for up to two of the following at-large candidates to serve a four-year term.

Melinda Garcia

Incumbent? No

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

As a lifelong Westwood resident, I have a deep appreciation for our city’s history and am committed to guiding Westwood’s promising future. The home I cherish has remained in our family for five decades, emphasizing my drive to preserve our community’s character, safety and charm. My professional background in Sales and Managemnt has honed my skills in attentive listening and collaboration. I mastered the art of understanding diverse perspectives and bringing them together for collective betterment. These experiences uniquely position me to serve the Westwood community effectively.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

Neighborhood Engagement: I will foster open dialogue between the city council and our residents. This will ensure every residents voices are heard and their concerns will be addressed. I will establish community outreach programs that facilitate enhanced dialogue between residents and the council. The open dialogue will ensure we remain attuned to local concerns and respond promptly to emerging needs in Westwood.

Protect and Enhance Community Character: To preserve Westwood’s unique charm, I will champion ordinances that support local businesses and protect out city’s history. Additionally, I will advocate for green spaces and community projects that mirror our sahred heritage.

Public Safety and Education is paramount. I will collaborate with local law enforcement to ensure they have adequate resources and promote community policing efforts. Alongside, I will partner with schools and county resources to ensure our youth and aging community have the best resources to education as well as programs to build a balanced community at every age.

Laura Steele

Incumbent? Yes

What specific experiences make you the most qualified candidate to serve in this position?

Westwood is perched on the edge of some major projects, both infrastructure and development. I have been a part of the beginning stages of many of these projects and feel that continuity in leadership is important for successfully seeing these projects through.

What are your top 1-3 priorities you hope to accomplish while in office, and what steps do you plan to take to make them happen?

I would love to see more dynamic partnerships with private developers in Westwood. I also would like to see a safer, more user-friendly redesign of Rainbow Boulevard.

Holly Wimer

Incumbent? Yes

Holly Wimer did not complete The Star’s candidate survey.

This story was originally published October 28, 2023 at 6:00 AM.