Vernon Mayoral Candidates Questions and Answers
Q: What do you see as the biggest challenge for the City of Vernon over the next four years?
Gosline: There are always many challenges that arise in a city. With the possibility of growth in our region, I think the labor shortage and lack of quality housing in our city will be a challenge. Also, the economy. The costs of running a family business and or a small business are extremely hard with today’s costs. Running a city is extremely expensive. With all the government regulations and rules they make it difficult and even more expensive for us. Purchasing vehicles, maintenance, supplies etc….it costs so much more. Therefore, it will be very challenging to create a budget and stay within that budget. I have faith in our city department heads and staff that once the City Council approves the budget, they will do everything possible to stay within that budget. Every month when we have council meetings it will be up to us to review expenditures and make sure we are staying within the budget. Every dollar counts.
Fraticelli: As a current commissioner, I see the continued increase in the cost of goods and services as one of the biggest challenges facing the City of Vernon over the next four years. This challenge not only impacts our residents directly but also affects the city’s financial stability and ability to provide essential services.
The rising cost of goods and services has a direct impact on the budgets of our residents, many of whom are already feeling stretched thin financially. As prices continue to rise, families may find it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities such as housing, groceries, and healthcare. This can lead to financial strain, decreased quality of life, and potential hardships for our community members.
Moreover, as a city, we rely on the income generated from our citizens through taxes and fees to fund various municipal services and infrastructure projects. However, there is a limit to how much we can reasonably expect our residents to contribute, especially when they are already grappling with the effects of inflation.
The negative effects of the cost-of-living increases ripple through our city’s economy, impacting businesses, employment rates, and overall economic growth. Small businesses, in particular, may struggle to stay afloat as operating costs rise, potentially leading to closures and job losses.
To address this challenge, we need proactive strategies that prioritize fiscal responsibility, efficient resource allocation, and support for local businesses and residents. This may include exploring ways to mitigate the impacts of inflation on our citizens, advocating for policies that promote economic stability, and fostering an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.
Q: The position of Mayor requires more of a time commitment than just going to city council meetings, what is your current state of employment, how much time are your employers going to allow you to commit to the job of Mayor of Vernon?
Fraticelli: As a candidate for the position of Mayor, I appreciate the importance of addressing concerns about time commitment. Currently, I am employed full-time with the Texas Department of Transportation, Procurement Division. Additionally, I am actively involved in several organizations, including the Optimist Club of Vernon, Vernon Lions Club, Vernon Jaycees, and I serve as a City Commissioner (Place 4). I am also engaged with the Texas Municipal League.
Balancing these commitments with personal life responsibilities requires careful time management and prioritization. While I recognize that the role of Mayor requires a significant time commitment beyond attending city council meetings, I am committed to fulfilling my duties effectively and efficiently.
It’s important to acknowledge that I may not be able to attend every single event or external meeting related to the Mayor’s position. However, I firmly believe that effective leadership is not solely measured by the number of events attended, but rather by the impact made through thoughtful decision-making and proactive engagement with constituents.
I have established a balance between work, civic duty, and personal life that allows me to effectively manage multiple responsibilities. I am confident that I can continue to maintain this balance while serving as Mayor of Vernon. My commitment to serving the citizens of Vernon remains steadfast, and I am dedicated to finding innovative ways to address their needs and concerns, even within the constraints of a busy schedule.
Gosline: I co-own the company which I founded in 2001, Five Star Recruiting, LLC; a recruiting agency specializing in the hospitality industry. I have retired from recruiting, and I manage the financials. I have a business partner that does all the recruiting. Therefore, I can attend meetings during the day and or evening without having to take time off from work or get a supervisor to approve my time off. To be effective and involved, it is extremely important that you have the flexibility to attend meetings sometimes with very little notice. Just last week I was in meetings almost every day. I am available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Q: What makes you a better potential Mayor than your opponent?
Gosline: I have worked for major corporations, owned my own business, have rental properties and I am a property owner. I have legal, real estate, government relations, public relations, marketing, and human resources in my background. I served on the city council for 2 years and now for the past 4 years have served as Vernon’s Mayor. Throughout my career, I have had to deal with budgets in the corporate world and as an owner of a business. I know how important it is to stay within your budget. Every dollar counts! With my human resources background, I know how important it is to build a team and work together. I feel that my leadership style has done that these last 4 years as Mayor. I have developed relationships with the other leaders in our community, Vernon College, Wilbarger County, Wilbarger General Hospital and Vernon Independent School District. I have built relationships with not just our local leaders but our state officials as well. We all work together for the betterment of Vernon and Wilbarger County. As stated in the question above, I also have the time required to be an effective Mayor.
Fraticelli: While I respect my opponent’s qualifications and experience, I believe that my background and skill set uniquely position me as the potential Mayor for Vernon. With 19 years of experience in public transportation and state government, I have developed a diverse set of skills that are directly applicable to the role of Mayor. Here’s how my experience sets me apart:
Construction Inspection: My role as a Construction Inspector has equipped me with the ability to interpret and ensure compliance with plans and specifications. This attention to detail and commitment to adherence to regulations will be invaluable in assisting overseeing city projects and initiatives.
Plan Development: I have experience in drafting plans, cost estimating, and quality assurance. This background enables me to effectively develop and execute plans for city development and infrastructure projects, ensuring they are both efficient and cost-effective.
Training and Compliance: As someone who has trained individuals on compliance with company policy, standards, and state law, I understand the importance of clear communication and adherence to regulations. This skill will be crucial in fostering transparency and accountability within the city government.
Project Management: With a track record of successfully managing projects with significant budgets, I have the necessary experience to oversee the city’s operations and finances responsibly. My experience in construction supervision spans various types of projects, providing me with a well-rounded perspective on managing complex initiatives.
Contract Development and Standard Operation Procedures: My involvement in contract development and standard operation procedures demonstrates my ability to navigate legal and regulatory frameworks effectively. I currently hold two certifications with the State of Texas, which are, Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) and Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM). This expertise will be essential in ensuring that city contracts and policies align with the best interests of Vernon residents.
Community Collaboration: I have cultivated strong working relationships with all entities within our community, fostering a spirit of collaboration and unity. As Mayor, I will prioritize engaging with stakeholders and fostering partnerships to address the city’s challenges effectively.
Commitment to Continuous Learning: I am currently working towards obtaining Certification for Elected Officials (TMLI), demonstrating my dedication to ongoing education and professional development in governance and city management.
In summary, my extensive experience in public transportation, coupled with my commitment to collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning, uniquely qualify me to serve as Mayor of Vernon. I am confident that my skills and dedication will enable me to effectively address the needs and priorities of our community and lead Vernon towards a prosperous future.
Q: As an elected official, what do you feel to be your greatest accomplishment during your current term in office.
Fraticelli: As an elected official, I believe my greatest accomplishment during my current term in office has been my ability to effectively contribute to the governance of the city and make a positive impact on behalf of the residents of Vernon.
One of my key achievements has been leveraging my knowledge of state law, contract development, and negotiation skills to save the city money in previous purchases. By carefully reviewing vendor processes and advocating for fair and favorable terms for the city, I have helped ensure that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively.
Moreover, I have strived to promote a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement within the city government. I believe that as elected officials, we have a responsibility to constantly seek ways to enhance our knowledge and skills in order to better serve the community.
By sharing my expertise and insights with my fellow commission members, I have contributed to a more informed and effective decision-making process. Collaboration and open communication among city officials are essential for addressing the needs and priorities of our residents in a responsible and responsive manner.
Overall, my greatest accomplishment has been my commitment to serving the citizens of Vernon with integrity, diligence, and dedication. I am proud to have played a role in advancing the interests of our community and working towards a brighter future for all residents.
Gosline: Working together with the City Council and City Staff Team we have been able to build a fund balance which has enabled us to work on our infrastructure such as the waterline, wastewater treatment plant, purchase new police cars and a new fire truck. We have added to the quality of life in Vernon such as Bacon City. I was hands on with the building of the Wright Pavilion that has added beauty and entertainment to our downtown and I have received donations that have been set aside to go towards adding bathrooms.
Q: The City of Vernon Police Department and the Vernon Fire Departments are under the control of City administration with the Mayor acting as the head of that administration. How actively involved in the actual running and operations of these departments do you intend to be as mayor?
Gosline: I am not a certified Firefighter or a trained Law Enforcement Officer. I do not need to tell these two departments how to run their departments. They have the experience, not me. We have an experienced Fire Chief and Police Chief; I have all the faith in the world in them. What I need to do as Mayor is listen to them, support them, and try and provide them with the tools they need to do their to protect the citizens of Vernon, Texas. Will I hold them accountable? Absolutely!!! We have an open line of communication, and they know that I am available 24/7 should an issue arise, it will be taken care of.
Fraticelli: I firmly believe in respecting the established chain of command and the division of responsibilities within the city government. The City of Vernon Police Department and the Vernon Fire Department, like all other city departments, are under the direction of the City Manager and their respective department heads, such as the Fire Chief and Chief of Police.
It is not the role of the Mayor to be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of these departments. Instead, the Mayor’s focus should be on the broader interests of the city as a whole and on providing strategic direction and leadership to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the community.
My intention as Mayor would be to work collaboratively with the City Manager and department heads during monthly commission meetings and other appropriate forums. These meetings provide an opportunity for all commission members to discuss relevant issues, provide input, and make informed decisions collectively.
By utilizing the established chain of command and fostering effective communication and collaboration among city officials, we can ensure that each department operates efficiently and effectively in serving the needs of our community. My role as Mayor would be to support and assist the City Manager and department heads in their responsibilities, rather than micromanaging or interfering in their daily operations.
Ultimately, my priority as Mayor would be to work towards the betterment of the entire city, ensuring that all departments have the resources and support they need to fulfill their missions and serve the residents of Vernon to the best of their abilities.
Q: What is your position on Vernon Citizens having their property sold by the city to recover not back taxes, but just the court costs and research fees assessed by the city after back taxes have been paid?
Fraticelli: The Texas Tax Code indeed outlines specific procedures and guidelines regarding the sale of property to recover expenses such as court costs and research fees assessed by the city, separate from back taxes.
It’s crucial to understand that property owners have rights and options outlined in the Tax Code before the seizure of their property occurs. These rights include opportunities to address outstanding taxes and associated fees, as well as avenues for resolving disputes or seeking exemptions.
Furthermore, the Texas Tax Code specifies the allowable uses for proceeds from the sale of seized property. These include compensating auctioneers, covering expenses related to the seizure and sale process, paying court costs, and satisfying outstanding taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees.
However, it’s essential to approach each property seizure and potential sale on a case-by-case basis, considering the unique circumstances of each situation. Factors such as the property owner’s financial situation, efforts to resolve outstanding taxes, and any extenuating circumstances should be taken into account when determining the appropriate course of action.
As Mayor, I believe in upholding the principles of fairness, transparency, and adherence to the law in all matters related to property taxation and the sale of seized property. It is crucial to ensure that the process is conducted in accordance with legal requirements and with due consideration for the rights and interests of property owners.
I am committed to fostering open dialogue and collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including property owners, city officials, and legal experts, to ensure that property seizures and sales are conducted fairly and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. By approaching each case with diligence and empathy, we can work towards equitable outcomes that serve the best interests of all involved parties and uphold the integrity of our community.
Gosline: The City of Vernon has a contract with Purdue Brandon FielderCollins & Mott LLP, and they follow the law and act on our behalf. Texas Communities Group, LLC sells the property for us once it is owned by the taxing entities, but Purdue processes the property for nonpayment of taxes for the taxing entities in Wilbarger County.
Q: Please name three things in order of importance to you that you intend to see accomplished during your term as Mayor.
Gosline: You’ve got to remember that the Mayor only has 1 vote. This position does not have as much power as some believe. Therefore, you must work together as a City Council and staff to get anything accomplished. That takes a good leader. The City Council had not had a Strategic Planning meeting for several years. I brought that back when I became Mayor. The City Council, Department Heads along with the City Manager and myself meet for a day in a local meeting room and together we all decide as a group and agree on our Strategic Plan. We set our goals and budget around the 5 Pillars. Our 5 Pillars are:
1. Providing Dependable and Sustainable Infrastructure
2. Instilling Pride and Appearance
3. Maximizing Financials
4. Promoting Economic Development
5. Enhancing Quality of Living
The Pillar to support all Five (5) Pillars is Maintaining Effective Communication
We will have a strategic plan meeting once the new council begins and before we start our budgeting workshops to see where we are on our pillars and together agree on the 24/25 Strategic Plan.
Fraticelli: As Mayor, there are three main priorities that I intend to focus on during my term:
1. Balanced Budget and Fiscal Responsibility: My top priority is to continue creating a balanced budget that meets the needs of our city departments and employees while also maintaining a cost-effective tax rate for our citizens. This includes careful management of city finances, identifying areas for cost savings, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are allocated efficiently and responsibly.
2. Infrastructure Improvement: I am committed to the continued improvement of our city’s infrastructure, including water systems, streets, sewers, equipment, and facilities. Investing in infrastructure is essential for ensuring the safety, functionality, and quality of life for our residents. By prioritizing infrastructure projects and securing funding for necessary upgrades and repairs, we can create a more resilient and sustainable community for generations to come.
3. Policy Implementation to Protect City Finances: I will work to implement policies that protect the city from the increasing costs that vendors pass along. Often, when entering into contracts, the city accepts vendors’ terms and conditions without establishing our own, which can potentially result in increased expenses. I believe it’s crucial to negotiate contracts that are fair and favorable to the city, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively.
By focusing on these priorities, I aim to lead Vernon towards a future of fiscal stability, infrastructure resilience, and responsible governance. These goals align with the needs and aspirations of our community, and I am dedicated to working tirelessly to achieve them during my term as Mayor.
Q: Much has been talked about in relation to the proposed hydrogen plant that is to be built south east of Vernon. How do you see the construction of this plant effecting the lives of the residents of the City of Vernon?
Fraticelli: The construction of the proposed hydrogen plant southeast of Vernon is a significant development that will undoubtedly have both positive and negative effects on the lives of the residents of the City of Vernon.
In the short term, the construction phase of the plant may bring about some challenges for residents. The influx of transient workers into our community may lead to increased traffic, demands on local services such as hospitals and hotels, and potential disruptions to daily life. However, it’s important to recognize that these temporary inconveniences are outweighed by the long-term benefits that the hydrogen plant will bring to our community.
Once operational, the hydrogen plant is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and attract investment to the area. This will have a positive impact on the local economy, providing opportunities for employment, business development, and increased revenue for the city.
As city leaders, it’s essential to communicate with residents about the potential effects of the construction phase and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to mitigate any negative impacts. We must also emphasize the importance of patience and understanding during this transitional period, keeping the long-term benefits of the hydrogen plant in mind.
Overall, while there may be some challenges associated with the construction of the hydrogen plant, the ultimate outcome will be a positive one for the City of Vernon. By working together and keeping our eyes on the future, we can ensure that our community thrives and prospers as we embrace new opportunities for growth and development.
Gosline: I believe it will be a slow trickling effect. We won’t wake up overnight and there be lots of new businesses and people in Vernon. Our restaurants and hotels are going to feel it first. I’m hoping that we can attract a builder that will build some new homes or remodel existing homes and some of the permanent employees will choose Vernon as their home. We’ve got to be ready. Our fire, police and the rest of the city staff are already discussing and preparing. I have attended several meetings with AES and Air Products over the last year since the hydrogen plant was announced. As we gather more information, we will keep the public informed.
Q: Do you believe that tax abatements are good or bad for the City of Vernon? Please explain your view.
Gosline: Good. Last year the City Council approved a tax abatement policy as a guideline when companies request a tax abatement. Tax abatements are a useful tool to attract new business and when existing businesses want to expand. As I stated above, the City Council approved a policy based on dollars and the number of employees the business will bring to the city.
Fraticelli: Tax abatements can indeed be a valuable tool for cities, including the City of Vernon, under certain circumstances. Here’s why I believe tax abatements can have positive impacts:
1. Reducing Unemployment: Tax abatements can incentivize businesses to invest in new facilities or expand existing ones, leading to job creation and reduced unemployment rates in the community. This can have ripple effects, boosting economic activity and improving the overall well-being of residents.
2. Strengthening Other Businesses: By attracting new businesses or encouraging existing ones to expand, tax abatements can stimulate competition and innovation within the local economy. This can lead to improved goods and services, increased consumer choices, and a more vibrant business environment overall.
3. Long-Term Growth in Tax Receipts: While tax abatements may involve a temporary reduction or exemption of taxes for the benefiting businesses, the resulting economic growth and increased property values can lead to higher tax revenues in the long run. As the abatement expires, the city stands to benefit from the increased tax receipts generated by the expanded tax base.
4. Flexible Economic Development Tool: Tax abatements provide cities with a flexible tool for economic development, allowing them to tailor incentives to attract specific types of businesses or investment projects that align with the city’s goals and priorities. This flexibility enables cities to respond to changing economic conditions and market demands effectively.
Overall, when used judiciously and in conjunction with comprehensive economic development strategies, tax abatements can be a valuable tool for promoting growth, job creation, and prosperity in the City of Vernon. As a city leader, I am committed to leveraging such tools responsibly and in the best interests of our community’s long-term economic health and vitality.
Q: Should a sitting City Commissioner or Mayor be required to resign their position if they declare as a candidate for another elected position, and if so why?
Fraticelli: As an elected commissioner and candidate for Mayor, it’s crucial for me to represent the voices and opinions of the people of Vernon. When it comes to the question of whether a sitting City Commissioner or Mayor should be required to resign their position if they declare as a candidate for another elected position, my perspective is informed by the sentiments of the community.
While the Constitution of Texas provision regarding automatic resignation does not directly apply to the City of Vernon due to our two-year term limits, there has been discussion within the city about potentially implementing such a requirement. This conversation reflects the concerns and interests of our residents, and as their elected representative, I take these viewpoints seriously.
My stance on this issue is not solely based on my personal opinion but is rooted in the democratic process and the desire to uphold the will of the people. If there is widespread support among the community for implementing a requirement for resigning from office when declaring candidacy for another elected position, then I am inclined to advocate for this position.
However, it’s essential to engage in open dialogue with residents, seek input from all stakeholders, and carefully consider the potential implications of any changes to our governance processes. Transparency and inclusivity are paramount in decision-making, and I am committed to ensuring that the opinions and concerns of the people of Vernon are heard and taken into account.
Ultimately, my role as an elected official is to represent the interests of the community and act in their best interests. By aligning my perspective with the sentiments of the people, I strive to uphold the principles of democracy and serve as a voice for the residents of Vernon.
Gosline: Absolutely Yes! If a City Commissioner or Mayor were to run for any other taxing entity board, they would have to resign their current elected position. It is called Resign to Run. In my case, the current commissioner is my opponent. Should he win, his seat would be appointed and not decided upon by the voters. To protect the integrity of elected positions, and to avoid the cost of a special election at the taxpayers cost, that individual should resign and allow the voters to decide who will maintain that seat for that election cycle, NOT the council. Appointments should only be made in cases where there is an emergency, and you have no other choice. A vacant seat should be decided by you, the voter NOT the Council.
Q: What is your opinion of the current salaries of Policemen and Firefighters in the City of Vernon? Are these people paid sufficiently for the services they perform? Please elaborate on your answer.
Gosline: First of all, when you put your life at risk every day to protect and serve your community, I’m not sure you can put a price/salary on that. However, I do believe that to retain our current first responders and, in the future, attract new first responders, we need to make sure that we are paying competitive salaries for our area and towns that are equivalent to Vernon in size. Benefits play a role also. The City of Vernon provides excellent benefits for our employees.
Fraticelli: In evaluating the current salaries of policemen and firefighters in the City of Vernon, it’s important to consider various factors to determine if they are being compensated sufficiently for the services they provide.
My research into surrounding communities of similar size indicates that our salaries for police officers and firefighters are generally in line with comparable municipalities. However, it’s essential to conduct periodic reviews and comparisons to ensure that our compensation packages remain competitive and reflective of the value of the services provided.
While salary is an important aspect of overall compensation, it’s also crucial to consider other factors such as benefits, working conditions, and opportunities for career advancement. These elements play a significant role in attracting and retaining talented individuals in our police and fire departments.
As a City Commissioner, I believe in the importance of fair and equitable compensation for all city employees, not just policemen and firefighters. It’s essential to assess the salaries of all municipal employees regularly and ensure that they are aligned with industry standards and the cost of living.
Each year, our city has been able to provide cost-of-living increases to employees, which is commendable. However, we must continue to monitor and adjust compensation structures as needed to maintain competitiveness and support the well-being of our workforce.
In summary, while I believe that the current salaries of policemen and firefighters in the City of Vernon are generally competitive with surrounding communities, it’s imperative that we regularly review and adjust compensation structures to ensure that all city employees are fairly compensated for their valuable contributions to our community.
Q: What do you see as the impact of an estimated influx of 1300 transient workers in relation to the construction of the new hydrogen plant having on our current state of city services such as ambulance and police services?
Fraticelli: The estimated influx of 1300 transient workers for the construction of the new hydrogen plant will undoubtedly have an impact on our current state of city services, particularly ambulance and police services. However, proactive planning and coordination with all stakeholders can help mitigate potential challenges and ensure that our community is well-prepared to handle the increased demand.
With the phased arrival of transient workers, it’s crucial for community leaders to communicate openly with the public about the expected impact on local services and infrastructure. This includes informing residents about the potential strain on ambulance and police services due to the increased population.
To address this, the city should prioritize staying fully staffed in essential services such as EMS/Fire and Police Departments. This may involve the need for additional personnel or overtime hours, and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to meet the needs of both the existing population and the influx of transient workers.
Furthermore, city officials should engage in ongoing dialogue with the representatives of the hydrogen plant to understand their specific needs. By collaborating closely with the plant representatives, the city can better anticipate potential challenges and implement proactive measures to address them.
Overall, effective planning, communication, and collaboration between city officials, community leaders, and the representatives of the hydrogen plant will be key to managing the impact of the transient workers on city services and ensuring that our community remains safe, resilient, and well-equipped to handle future challenges.
Gosline: As I stated before, the 1300 workers will not be here all at one time. It will be over the next 3 to 4 years. I feel confident in our current staff that we will make the necessary adjustments needed for the influx of people in Vernon. Labor shortage is an issue across the United States, not just Vernon. That is why it is so important that we continue to have open communication to prepare for the future.
CANDIDATE SUMMATIONS
Gosline: In closing for the last 6 years, I have seen growth and improvement in many areas in Vernon. Especially in communication. I have been instrumental in live stream of all City Council meetings, and I was instrumental in the development of the monthly newsletter that is in your water bill and posted on social media. I have been your voice for the City of Vernon. The City Council working together has pit the city in a good financial position. We are on a roll!! Are we where we need to be? Absolutely Not! There is still a lot more work to be done. But I believe under my leadership along with a city council that will work together and not against each other, a good solid team at City Hall we can continue to make Vernon better for generations to come. I love this town. I have a passion to serve my community. I can’t do it alone. It’s not an “I” job. It takes a leader that will listen to the community, and listen and support the ones that are on the ground doing the work. Lead, NOT want power. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Vernon the last 4 years as your Mayor. ” As someone once said, “If it’s not broke why fix it?” Is now the time to fix or change it?
I hope I have shown you “Dependable Proven Leadership”. I’m asking once again for your vote to re-elect me as the Mayor of Vernon.
Fraticelli: Throughout my term, I’ve prioritized fiscal responsibility, infrastructure improvement, and activity listening to the concerns of our citizens. Balancing budgets is paramount, ensuring the needs of city departments are met while maintaining a reasonable tax rate for citizens. Infrastructure, including water systems, streets, and facilities, remains a top focus for sustained growth and quality of life enhancements. Additionally, I’d like to see policies to protect city finances, especially in vendor contracts, leveraging my expertise in state law and negotiation to secure favorable terms and save taxpayer dollars.
One of my proudest achievements has been using my knowledge and skills to make tangible savings for Vernon. By scrutinizing vendor processes and advocating for fair prices, I’ve contributed to cost-effective decisions that benefit the city and its residents. I firmly believe in the importance of ongoing education and collaboration among city officials, striving to foster an environment where knowledge-sharing leads to informed decision-making and improved outcomes for Vernon.
My dedication to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement has guided my actions as an elected official. I recognize the importance of serving the community with integrity and diligence, always seeking opportunities to enhance governance practices and better meet the needs of residents. Through collaboration, transparency, and open communication, I’ve worked to ensure that the voices and concerns of Vernon’s citizens are heard and addressed in a responsible and responsive manner.
Moving forward, I remain committed to advancing the interests of Vernon and its residents. By continuing to prioritize sound fiscal management, infrastructure investment, and prudent policy-making, I am confident that we can build a stronger, more resilient community for generations to come. Together, we will work towards a brighter future for Vernon, guided by principles of stewardship, innovation, and service to others.
