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913-634-5883 Paid for by Elect Michelle Distler Michelle Distler, Treasurer |
“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. They do not set out to be a leader, but become one by the quality of their actions and the integrity of their intent.”
- Mike Jones I believe in and Prioritize:
My top priorities have been, and will continue to be: transparency, fiscal responsibility, and open and honest communication with residents, making sure every voice is heard. In addition: Our city needs to be guided by its citizens and business leaders. Elected officials need to listen to the residents. The goal is not to think alike, but to think together. We need to be representative of the people of Shawnee and respectful to the public. We need to remember we are here to serve the community. Open government is understandable government. If the citizens feel confused about city processes or government speak, we have to work together to fix that. We need to examine how Shawnee regulations and policies help or hinder growth through improved communications with existing local and new businesses. We need to budget our limited resources judiciously without diminishing our essential services such as police, fire, and public works. It is imperative that we take the initiative to control spending and promote viable investments in the city to secure Shawnee’s future and quality of life. I am proud of my record as I have fought for these principles. Below are some of my votes: Opposed a budget that could only be supported with a tax increase. Supported efficiency improvements. Supported a complete audit of all city departments to improve efficiencies. Supported Priority Based Budgeting. Supported fair and open competition in trash hauling/recycling. Opposed additional 1/2 % sales tax on groceries in the Ten Quivira Plaza shopping center. Opposed removal of detailed minutes and supported transparency through reinstated verbatim minutes. Opposed predetermined council appointments (three times). Supported a more accessible online check register so residents have visibility to how their tax dollars are being spent. Opposed the franchise tax on resident utilities. Supported landfill impact fees that will give an additional $3 million a year in revenue for street maintenance and finance an Economic Development Fund. Stood firm on upholding the 2nd amendment of the constitution and prevented an illegal ordinance from taking effect. Supported incentives that promoted responsible economic development. Opposed the ill-fated Monticello road project. It was started prematurely, disrupting the lives and safety of the residents with the removal of light poles, and caused the condemnation of two homes prematurely, among other things. This showed a lack of economic foresight by those continuing to support the project despite the obvious obstacles that were never seriously addressed. Responsive and open communication with residents on issues that impact them and made sure their voice was heard by staff and council. Since 2006 I have have advocated for implementing quiet zones for two of our train crossings off of Martindale that is closer to being resolved. In April 2007 I advocated for Shawnee to implement an adopt-a-spot program that has come into fruition through the volunteer program. Adopt-A-Spot In 2008 I advocated for a city wide mass notification system (reverse 911) to notify residents of serious weather, dangerous situations, etc. We voted in approval to join the county-wide system. http://www.notifyjoco.org/ “Always vote for a principal, though you vote alone, and you may cherish the sweet reflection that your vote is never lost.” — John Quincy Adams |
