Term: Dec. 2025 - Nov. 2029
What are your top priorities or focus areas for the city?
Complete the Merriam Marketplace development (including Trader Joe's) and the Downtown Master Plan. Maintain Merriam's affordability and high citizen satisfaction.
What’s one accomplishment you’re most proud of during your time on the council?
I've been on Council for over 20 years, so my response is pretty broad: Merriam has CHANGED! Our City has changed from being a quiet after-thought in the KC Metro Area to being a well-recognized, vital suburb that has embraced culture and economic growth.
What’s your favorite local spot in the city?
My favorite local spot is wherever the current City gathering might be, especially Merriam Marketplace, Merriam Community Center Courtyard, or Tim Murphy Art Gallery. I also like the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, especially the area east of my home in Edelweiss and the walking trail at Quail Creek Park.
What do you love most about living here?
I love that I know so many folks from various activities of my life. I particularly enjoy when my circles of friends intersect with each other -- I find that this happens more and more often.
What’s a fun fact people might not know about you?
Hard to think there's much that folks DON'T know about me by now ... I have family roots on both sides of the state line; I'm fifth generation in Johnson County; choral singing is my favorite (and highly necessary) form of therapy.
What’s your vision for the city in the next 5-10 years?
My vision is that Merriam is a desirable community, livable for all ages and family configurations and strongly rooted in economic vitality, physical health, cultural appreciation, and safety.