PRIORITIES

Local government has a responsibility to prioritize the essentials—those core services that keep our community safe, functional, and thriving. That means properly funding our fire department, EMS, police, utilities, and other critical infrastructure. These are the services residents rely on every single day, and they must come first in our city budget.

Unfortunately, we’ve seen too many tax dollars spent on flashy, unnecessary projects—things that look good on paper or make for a headline, but do little to serve the day-to-day needs of the people of Pella. Meanwhile, the foundational services that actually make our city run smoothly are too often treated as afterthoughts. It’s time we get our priorities straight.

We need a City Council that has the courage to say “no” to wasteful spending and “yes” to responsible budgeting. Our first obligation should be to protect and strengthen the essential services that directly impact the lives of Pella’s residents and ensure our community continues to be a safe, reliable, and welcoming place to live.

As a member of City Council, I’ll work to ensure every tax dollar is spent wisely—investing in what matters and eliminating the fluff. That means supporting our first responders, maintaining critical infrastructure, and ensuring our utilities are dependable and efficient. We owe it to the taxpayers to be good stewards of their hard-earned money.

Fiscal responsibility is key to keeping Pella strong for generations to come. Just like families and businesses must live within their means, our city must prioritize responsible budgeting and debt reduction. Taking on unnecessary debt not only burdens taxpayers today but also puts future generations at risk of higher taxes and fewer resources for essential services.

The best way to reduce Pella’s debt is through disciplined spending, smart investments, and ensuring every dollar is used efficiently. We must focus on core priorities—maintaining infrastructure, supporting public safety, and fostering economic growth—without unnecessary spending or government expansion. By cutting waste, prioritizing projects that deliver real value, and seeking private-sector partnerships where possible, we can bring down debt while keeping Pella on a path to long-term financial stability.

As your next City Council member, I will fight to ensure that Pella operates with a balanced budget, keeps taxes low, and avoids reckless financial decisions. A strong, debt-free city means a stronger future for our families, businesses, and community as a whole.

Pella is one of Iowa’s most unique and vibrant communities, known for its rich Dutch heritage, charming small-town feel, and strong local economy. As your next City Council member, I will work to ensure Pella continues to be a top destination for visitors while preserving what makes our community special.

From the world-famous Tulip Time Festival, which draws thousands of visitors each year, to our beautiful Molengracht Plaza, Vermeer Windmill, and Historical Village, Pella’s attractions showcase our deep-rooted history and culture. Our thriving downtown, scenic Lake Red Rock, and family-friendly events make Pella a place people want to visit—and return to.

Tourism strengthens our local economy by supporting small businesses, restaurants, and hotels. I will advocate for smart policies that enhance Pella’s appeal while ensuring our community remains a welcoming and well-maintained place for residents and visitors alike. By investing in our parks, infrastructure, and business-friendly initiatives, we can continue to make Pella a premier destination in Iowa.

Small businesses are the heart of Pella’s economy. They create jobs, spark innovation, and give our town the unique charm we all love. As a business owner myself, I understand firsthand the challenges entrepreneurs face—the risks, the long hours, and the constant drive it takes to grow something meaningful. Pella’s business owners invest not just their money, but their passion and pride into this community, and they deserve a city government that respects and supports that commitment.

Rather than piling on regulations or slowing progress with unnecessary red tape, we need to create an environment where small businesses can flourish. That means cutting barriers to entry, streamlining permitting processes, and adopting policies that encourage investment, not discourage it. Smart incentives and thoughtful collaboration with business leaders can make all the difference.

When small businesses thrive, so does Pella. On City Council, I’ll bring my experience and perspective as a business owner to the table—fighting for policies that empower entrepreneurs, attract investment, and grow a local economy that works for everyone.

Pella’s growth depends on ensuring that families, young professionals, and retirees have access to quality, affordable housing. Right now, our housing inventory isn’t keeping up with demand, making it harder for people to put down roots in our community. Instead of relying on costly government programs or overregulation, we need a market-driven approach to encourage smart development while protecting taxpayers.

The best way to expand housing options is by working with private investors, developers, and local businesses to create incentives for responsible growth. By cutting unnecessary red tape, streamlining the permitting process, and offering targeted incentives for new developments, we can attract investment in housing that meets the needs of our workforce and families.

This isn’t about government overreach—it’s about creating an environment where the private sector can step up and invest in our community. More housing options mean a stronger local economy, a growing workforce, and a better quality of life for all Pella residents. As a City Council member, I will work to ensure that Pella remains an attractive place to live, work, and raise a family by promoting smart, fiscally responsible housing policies that benefit both current and future residents.

 The people of Pella deserve a city government that is open, honest, and accountable—not one driven by bureaucratic red tape or quiet backroom deals. Transparency isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a duty. As your next City Council member, I’ll work to ensure decisions are made in the light of day, with clear communication and community input guiding the way.

Taxpayers should know exactly how their money is being spent and have a say before major financial or policy decisions are made. I’ll push for clearer financial reporting, open access to city records, and meaningful opportunities for public feedback—so residents are never left in the dark.

Pella deserves leadership that puts people over politics and process. I’ll fight every day to keep our government efficient, honest, and focused on serving the people—not special interests or behind-the-scenes agendas.