The Miami Valley Today recently ran an article outlining the answers given to it by our campaign. As we have always done, here are the entire answers given to the questions that were asked.
Biographical Information
Education: BS Hons., Urban Affairs, Wright State University. Master of Public Administration, Wright State University. Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership, Indiana University. Certificate in Fund Raising Leadership, Indiana University. Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership, Texas A&M University.
Family: I live with my wife of 21 years Ashley and we have two children, Jackson and Charlotte.
Political history: Troy City Schools Board of Education, 2012-2013. Troy City Council At-Large, 2018-2019. Troy City Council President, 2020-Current. Miami County Republican Party Central Committee Precinct Representative, 2020-Current. Miami County Republican Party Central Committee Chairman, 2022-Current.
Occupation: Executive Director of The New Path, Inc. since 2014.
Please answer the questions below in 100 words or less.
Why are you running for mayor?
I am a lifelong resident here and my family has called Troy home for generations. I am running because I believe we can do a better job of serving our citizens. I want Troy to be a community where our children and grandchildren will have opportunities to grow.
And we can’t create that kind of community until we start actively including residents in our community’s future. Whether this means recruiting individuals to serve on our city’s boards or championing more public input in planning efforts, this community belongs to all of us and we need leadership that understands that fact.
Why do you feel you're the best candidate to serve as mayor?
I believe with the educational credentials and the experiences I have serving in local government, I can bring a perspective and a vision that will provide our residents with the leadership, vision and commitment our community deserves.
From my work at the first township administrator in Miami County in Bethel Township, to my work rehabilitating the Fort Piqua Plaza and tearing down the Piqua Memorial Medical Center, I have built stronger and more resilient communities.
People who know me know of my work ethic and my dedication to creating positive partnerships and making government work for and respect taxpayers.
How can you improve communication with Troy residents?
Simply saying, “Residents can call me” is not a successful strategy for improving communication. Leaders need to actively seek out the concerns and the ideas of our residents.
I am committed to lead efforts to create a comprehensive survey of the services we provide. I want to know from you those services that our city is providing well and those services where we need to make an improvement.
In those areas where we are setting the standard, we will continue to do so. In those areas where we are weak, we will commit ourselves to make improvements.
What is the biggest challenge the city of Troy is facing?
By 2025, we need to come up with a new comprehensive plan. This plan will guide future decisions in terms of land use, infrastructure and services for the next few decades. In order for this plan to be a success, we need public input at every step of the process, from project kick-off, community visioning and project implementation.
The last time our community went through this process, back in the early 2000s, our city’s only attempt at public participation were two meetings at the end of the project. I am committed to engaging the public throughout the entire planning process.
Do you think more businesses and housing are needed in Troy? And if so, how do you plan to accomplish this?
The City’s commissioned MKSK study showed that while there is a need for housing, we are only seeing single-family residential lots being developed. This is squeezing out younger families and seniors that often prefer more housing options such as townhouses. We should look at ways that we can effectively encourage new housing that will serve our community.
A vital business climate is a key to a stronger community. Businesses of all shapes and sizes provide increased economic opportunities for all our residents and our local government should strive to support all our local businesses within Troy.
What is your stance on the situation with the Tavern Building?
After years of minimal maintenance, it can be debated whether the cost of restoration is greater than the value any renovations could provide. What can’t be debated is that a grass lot is not an adequate reuse plan, as voted upon by our city’s planning commission.
Whatever the end result, either a restored building or new construction, a clear vision needs to be communicated on not only what the building will look like, but what the building will actually be used for. Any new use of the building needs to complement the strengths we have in our beautiful downtown.
Final Comments
Our community will have challenges over the next four years and we need leadership that will meet those challenges head on with an approach that puts the needs of our residents first. Throughout this campaign, I have focused on sharing my vision and values and described my experiences and educational background. I believe I am the better candidate prepared to lead our hometown into the future and ask for your vote for Mayor on May 2nd in Troy's Republican Primary Election.
