Over the years, Clayton has grown and evolved in remarkable ways. What developments or community changes are you most proud of, and what future opportunities excite you most?
"When my family first moved to Clayton, we immediately connected with the Center of Clayton, a truly innovative partnership between the city and the Clayton School District. It remains a vibrant hub where residents gather to exercise, meet and cheer on our students.
I’m also incredibly proud of how our downtown continues to transform. New residential buildings, beautiful office towers, reimagined park spaces and exciting entertainment options are shaping a more dynamic city center. Looking forward, I’m hopeful we can move ahead with converting the former ice rink site into a flexible event and gathering space.
Throughout our comprehensive planning process, 'Clayton Tomorrow 2040,' residents expressed a strong desire for initiatives that bring people together. I want us to continue activating our downtown streets and building a true live/work/play ecosystem that enriches the lives of residents, visitors and business employees alike."
Community connection is essential to effective leadership. How do you plan to stay engaged with residents and business owners, and what does active listening look like in Clayton?
"Community connection is something we’re always working to strengthen. While we’ve improved our social media presence and expanded email communication, we know how valuable our printed City Views newsletter and informal gatherings are for residents. I truly miss those one-on-one moments, so I hope to reintroduce office hours or “Coffee with the Mayor” soon, continuing a tradition I loved as a Ward 3 councilmember.
I make it a priority to be present at community events, including the recent tornado town hall, and encourage everyone to sign up for our Friday update, which shares news, events, council items and opportunities for input.
Our EngageClayton.com platform, created during the comprehensive plan process, remains active and is used to gather community feedback, most recently for the Wydown restoration efforts. We also stay closely connected with the school district, regularly coordinating communications to better share information that serves both our families and our community."
Looking ahead, what's your hope for Clayton over the next decade, and what legacy would you like to leave as mayor of the city you've proudly called home?
"Over the next decade, I hope Clayton continues to thrive with beautiful, connected neighborhoods that feel safe and welcoming. I want our business community to remain strong and supported, and for the city to stay financially resilient, despite the challenges facing municipalities across our region.
Locally, I envision more activated and adaptable public spaces, especially within our parks, and safer pedestrian and bike connectivity throughout the city. Regionally, I hope we deepen our partnerships, because Clayton is one part of a larger community that benefits greatly from collaboration and shared purpose.
Ultimately, I hope my legacy reflects a city that grew stronger, more connected and more inclusive; a place where people felt proud to live, work and build their future."
"Our greatest strengths remain our committed and thoughtful residents, city staff and our business community that keeps our city thriving."