Blue Springs Issues
Fiscal
Responsibility
I am
determined to be responsible with your tax dollars. The tax
increase for road repairs on the ballot for February 6th,
clearly illustrates the city’s inability to manage their funds
and provide basic services for the residents of Blue Springs.
Cuts are needed from top to bottom in our city budget. We
need to stop the spend and tax mentality that seems to be
pervasive in our city government.
Leadership
and Vision
The
greatest obstacle facing our city right now is a lack of
direction and leadership. We need to elect people who have a
clear vision of what direction our city needs to take and the
courage to make it happen. When my mother told me growing up
“Be a leader not a follower” I took it to heart. We need to
elect people who will stand up and make tough decisions and
who have the strength and conviction to carry them out. As a
city, we need to treat everyone with respect and dignity and
help provide guidelines, creativity and a helpful attitude
that will help facilitate growth.
Eminent
Domain
I believe
the use of eminent domain to uproot homeowners and destroy
ongoing viable businesses in the name of economic development
is wrong. When our city used eminent domain on Rent-A-Center,
it was wrong. When the threat of eminent domain is used to
intimidate homeowners, it is wrong. The right to own property
is a basic right we have as Americans.
Honest and
Open Government
I believe
in open government that deals honestly, ethically and
professionally with residents and developers. We need to keep
our citizens informed on what is happening in their city and
encourage their input and involvement in decisions. As
chairman of the Planning Commission, I helped to establish the
new policy of posting signs on property to inform our
residents of upcoming public hearings. I have been an
advocate for years to televise all City Council and Planning
Commission meetings. People should be able to see their local
government in action.
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