What’s the biggest issue facing Waukee right now?
Our biggest challenge is managing growth without raising taxes. Waukee’s growth is a good problem to have, but only if we manage it responsibly. We can’t afford to let expansion outpace infrastructure or burden families who already work hard to live here.
I believe in being fiscally smart and planning ahead — not reacting later. By expanding our business community and attracting responsible development, we can strengthen the tax base while keeping Waukee the safe, family-friendly bedroom community residents value today.
What do you think about Waukee’s $400 million Civic Campus plan?
The Civic Campus is an ambitious vision — it would bring City Hall, the library, trails, and public spaces together into one modern, connected center. It’s a bold idea, and I love seeing long-term thinking. But I also believe ambition must be matched by accountability.
Before committing to anything of that scale, I’d require transparent financial modeling so residents understand the costs and benefits, and phased accountability to ensure each stage delivers value before moving on. With public-private partnerships and disciplined planning, it could become a true community hub. Without them, it risks becoming a burden.
Growth should make Waukee stronger — not more expensive for families.
How can Waukee keep taxes low while providing quality services?
We do it by being fiscally disciplined and smart about growth. Waukee families spend too many of their dollars in neighboring cities because there’s not enough to do here. That’s money leaving our community instead of fueling it.
By supporting the right mix of restaurants, entertainment, and recreation, we can keep residents’ spending local and attract visitors. Every business that opens here broadens the tax base and eases the burden on homeowners. Lower taxes come from smarter investments — not from cutting the services people rely on.
How does business growth help homeowners?
Here’s the truth: for every dollar collected from residential property, cities spend about $1.10–$1.30 on services like roads, parks, and schools. But for every dollar from commercial property, the city spends only $0.30–$0.50. That difference adds up fast.
When businesses succeed, everyone benefits. A healthy balance — ideally 30–40% of tax revenue from business — stabilizes property taxes and supports city services without overburdening families. More local business means more shared responsibility and more dollars staying right here in Waukee.
What’s your philosophy on growth and community character?
Growth should strengthen what we already love about Waukee. I want our city to keep its small-town heart even as it grows. That means thoughtful development that respects neighborhoods, preserves green space, and plans for safety and traffic before problems arise.
My focus is on transparency, fiscal discipline, and partnerships that create opportunity without sacrificing our identity. Growth is inevitable — but higher taxes and lost character are not. We can plan boldly and still protect what makes Waukee home.
How will you address infrastructure and long-term planning?
Waukee’s growth has been incredible, but our infrastructure needs to keep pace with that momentum. Roads like Ute Avenue already feel the strain, and without a clear long-term plan, we risk falling further behind.
My priority is to move from reactive fixes to proactive, data-driven planning. I’ll push for a multi-year infrastructure master plan that aligns road expansion with population and traffic projections, developed in coordination with Dallas County and the Iowa DOT.
Because portions of Ute Avenue fall under county jurisdiction, collaboration is key — but it also opens opportunities for joint funding through programs like the RISE Grant (Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy) and other state and federal infrastructure funds.
I also believe in creating a local infrastructure reserve fund so the city has matching dollars ready when grant opportunities arise. The goal is simple: plan smarter, coordinate earlier, and make sure our infrastructure supports growth — not constantly chases it.
What’s your vision for trails and neighborhood connectivity?
Our trail system is one of Waukee’s greatest assets. It connects neighborhoods, promotes healthy living, and strengthens our sense of community. As development continues, we need to make trail connectivity a consistent priority rather than an afterthought.
I support the creation of a trail connectivity master plan to identify and prioritize gaps between neighborhoods, schools, and parks. I’d advocate for annual budget allocations specifically for trail development and maintenance, ensuring we can leverage state and federal grant programs like Iowa’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and the Recreational Trails Program.
I also believe developers should be required to include trail linkages as part of their project plans, so every new neighborhood contributes to a more complete and connected system. Trails aren’t just recreational — they’re vital infrastructure that improves safety, property values, and quality of life.
How will Waukee balance growth with public safety?
For public safety, we must ensure that Waukee’s rapid growth is matched with strategic investments in staffing, facilities, and equipment. I’ll support a comprehensive needs study, phased planning, and a focused effort to secure grants and explore shared service opportunities to keep pace with demand.
At the same time, I believe we need to evaluate the pace and volume of new apartment developments. High-density housing can bring needed options, but it also increases pressure on schools, roads, and emergency services.
There should be a clear, data-driven formula to measure how these projects impact city resources compared to the tax revenue they generate. Balanced, sustainable growth is the key to maintaining the safety, quality, and character that make Waukee such a great place to live.