Questions

Why are you running for mayor at this time?

Several years ago, I was contacted by Brunswick city officials regarding COVID related ARPA grant opportunities having had success in a neighboring community.  After several conversations, Brunswick applied for and received a large wastewater improvement grant.  I was asked to serve on a committee for Brunswick to provide input on what direction the grant funds should be spent throughout the wastewater treatment and distribution systems.  According to ARPA guidelines, the project must be completed prior to the end of 2026.  Having been involved with the project from the onset, I would appreciate the opportunity from Brunswick voters to help ensure this project is completed on time and meet grant commitments.

I was also at the very first meeting announcing the Grand River L246 levee improvements.  I also attended every follow-up public meeting regarding the potential improvements and gave input at the one-on-one chats held at Kaitlynn's Deli.  Some of the ideas I shared were taken seriously enough to be presented at subsequent community presentations.  My promise to the community would be to try to keep this project alive by making contacts and advocating for the project to be revived in order to change the flood footprint of the community once the project is complete.  

Finally, I was approached by several residents asking if I would consider running.  I believe my past city management experience, in all aspects of municipal governance, and a proven track record in project management, would be of benefit to the community.  I'd like to focus on street improvements, public safety, business development and tourism opportunities.  To find out more about me and my experience, I encourage everyone to visit votemayortom.com and if you agree, I humbly ask for your support.

What leadership qualities make you the right choice?

I have roughly 40 years of management experience with the last 25 years specifically related to civic leadership in all aspects of public administration.  I do currently, and have in the past, serve(d) on a number of boards, committees, organizations and groups geared toward making Brunswick, and surrounding communities, a better place to live and work.  I believe my educational credentials including the highest MoDNR state level certifications in water/wastewater/distribution, electrical journeyman linework, and multiple academic degrees, including a Master's in Business Administration (4.0).  I was also asked to come back to teach as an adjunct professor on the bachelor's and master's level from my alma mater in the areas of management, marketing, business, ethics, Capstone Project and more, which I did for nearly 7 years.  These credentials can also be found on the website, or on Facebook, listed in the previous question.  

Two of my main philosophies include; 'I am no better than anyone else,' and 'I'd never ask anyone to do something I wouldn't be willing to do myself.'  I'd like to share these leadership qualities in a positive, honest, and professional way for the citizens, businesses and visitors of Brunswick.  

What does this town mean to you personally?

Home.  Home is the word that would best describe what Brunswick means to me,  I believe that affection had to have started at BHS, where I graduated in 1987.  I have a great number of friends to this day from attending there and consider them family.  I  miss the days of hanging out with these friends and sometimes getting into mischief together.  I would like to be part of something that gives the same favorable reflection to today's students as I had attending Brunswick High.  I believe this begins with a strong community that supports this and other institutions.

I have deep-rooted thoughts on swimming at the pool, fishing on the Grand, cruising on Broadway, working on area farms, playing sports and much more.  I met my sweetheart here and together we've always had a connection being married here, having family here and knowing together we will be buried here.

Today, I'm proud to see people of the community and surrounding areas socialize at fish frys, benefit dinners, festivals, special events, coffee clubs, etc.  These are the things that make up a great rural community and It'd be my honor to serve the community that gave so much to me.  

What is one sentence that sums up your campaign?

"Your trusted voice."  This would be the one sentence that sums up my campaign as I truthfully strive to make Brunswick a more exceptional place through professional representation.  I had a friend point out that promising to donate any mayoral funds back to the city or community or work for free as a part of a campaign is in violation of Mo115.657(4).  My wife and I have always donated to local causes and will continue to do so.  I will speak-up and advocate for Brunswick locally, regionally, state-wide and even nationally in these endeavors.    Once again, I encourage everyone to visit votemayortom.com. (where even rumors are addressed) and simply vote your conscience.  Thank you for the consideration.