1. It's been about a year since you eventually decided not to interview for the position in Valley Center. Looking back over the past year, how do you now feel about that decision? What events/circumstances factor in to your feelings?
A: I don't regret any decision I've made, including deciding to stay here in Greensburg. City Administrator is a difficult position (disaster recovery or not). I cannot make everyone happy. I try to be sensitive to everyone's views and thoughts, but ultimately I make decisions I feel will help this community recover. I've had an opportunity to work for five different municipalities. I've seen managers come and go. If the Council and community feel I'm doing a good job, I want to stay and help. A year ago I was given an opportunity. However, the Council asked me to stay and showed me support. I felt then as I feel now, I want to finish what I started. I understand that during this recovery, there are many different ideas and visions. Some people don't like what things look like or the direction. I'm sensitive to that, however I'm also very excited where things are and where things are going.
2. As you look ahead to the next year to 18 months, what do you see as three or four challenges/projects critical to the community 's/county's continued recovery from the tornado?
A: To be honest, from a City Government view the next 18 months are important. The federal funding for our additional staffing has run out. Later this spring we will lose our additional staff members that were hired to help with our recovery. However, you will see many projects that are still under construction or have yet to begin. The City will continue its rebuilding, but it does put a strain on the remaining staff. I also think it's critical for more commerce to return or develop.
The population needs to continue to grow and that happens with business/ jobs. Economic Development is a key component to the recovery and growth. There are expectations of services in our community and I want for us to be able to maintain all services without raising fees/taxes. Reality is, our population is less than what it was pre-disaster. We need tocontinue to push growth. We cannot sit back and be complacent. Over the next 18 months and beyond we must be active and aggressive. I look forward to the Hospital and School opening. These are Economic Development tools our City/County must use to promote our "Quality of Life".
3. With finalization of the cooperative agreement between USD 422 and 474 that would bring most Haviland high schoolers to Greensburg looking likely, comment on how you envisions this development possibly affecting the future of both communities and the county as a whole. Are there only pros you think probably?
A: I realize the School issue is sensitive. However, I think we all understand that we are in changing times. I'm referring to our Economic issues that are affecting everyone across the country. I think both school boards are working towards what's best for the kids. I think its very positive for our Cities and County when we work together. As for the future, if our County is united our communities should benefit. If we expect to grow, we need to have quality education with quality facilities. We must market our schools and education opportunities as part of that quality of life. We will have the best facilities in Western Kansas, if not all of Kansas. When we talk about marketing what we have, Schools is one of the most important items.
4. What can you report about the current status of Agriboard? Also, how much is the current economic climate hampering efforts to land such employers here?
A: Agriboard is not dead.... We are still working diligently to make this happen. Myself, Mayor Dixson, and Bob Wetmore continue to look for ways to bring this company and it's jobs to the County. Yes, the economic climate is a factor with everything. Nevertheless, we must keep focus and continue to make every effort to help Agriboard and our community. It must work for both parties.
5. Is the April 6 city council election as significant as the mayoral/council election of two years ago, or is it even more so? Also, to what degree might the outcome of that election impact your future as to how much longer you stay in Greensburg?
A: Anytime there is an election, its important. I don't want to put more weight on this election compared to any other. This is different because we have only three seats up for election compared to all five council and mayor seats two years ago. This is a chance for the community to express their thoughts about all matters of the community. Every two years this is what happens. As for the impact on my future????? I would be lying if I said I don't think about these things. I'm human. However, I can't dwell on things I cannot control. I work for the Council. I have a contract. I have a responsibility to myself, my family, my career, etc etc. I understand the reality of my position. I will work to help Greensburg recover and grow while I'm Administrator. I will keep moving forward until told otherwise. I want Greensburg to be successful.
