(This is the final installment in a series of articles profiling several local election candidates. We asked each candidate the same four questions. However, some candidates did not answer by press time.)
CANDIDATE PROFILES: WPSB District 1
Margaret Edens
Why did you want to run?
I was given the opportunity to complete my son’s term on the Webster Parish School Board. During that time, my perspective on the current educational system was totally enlightened. Participating in the future plans and projects regarding our children and our school system became not only a priority, but a personal desire and responsibility.
Why should someone vote for you?
A vote for me is a vote to make sure their voices will be heard.
What do you want voters to know about you?
Forward thinking in a fast paced, ever changing world is a challenge our school districts face every day. My career as a Fortune 500 business consultant has given me the business acumen and knowledge to work with our educational boards and educational leaders. A college degree in education and certification in behavior analysis presents benefits when working as a team member in any type of business meeting.
What are your goals?
It is my goal to continue pushing in a direction that will benefit every student that has the opportunity to be educated in our Webster Parish School system. While I would endeavor to improve test scores and graduation rates, I will continually support enrichment programs. I want to see the Webster Parish School Board foster an educational environment where students thrive in all areas of learning.
CANDIDATE PROFILES: District 5 Alderman
Ronnie Dees
Why did you want to run?
I ran for Alderman 8 years ago because others in my district ask me to and I felt like it was my Civic Duty to do my part to help our community.
I have continued to run because I believe, and am told by others, that I am good at the job and I continue to want to support our community.
Why should someone vote for you?
The voters of District 5 should vote for me because I do love our community and there is not anyone else in the race that can do as good of job as I can to serve District 5. No matter what any candidate says or believes I know from experience that the only way an Alderman can truly help his constituents is by having a good working relationship with the Mayor.
The Mayor oversees all departments of the city, and the only way an Alderman can get anything done is with the Mayor’s support as an Alderman can not direct any employee of the city. Also the Mayor sets the agenda at all meetings and the only way an Alderman can amend an agenda is with an unanimous vote of all Aldermen present, then if the agenda is amended of course the Alderman would need the support of at least 2 more Aldermen. So when an Alderman makes a promise it is with much speculation of cooperation and support of the Mayor and the rest of the council.
What did you want voters to know about you?
I want voters to know that I have supported and tried to do my part to keep this community clean and improve it all of my life , way before I ever considered running for Alderman and continue to do so in my private life and business. I have lived in Springhill my entire life and plan to live here the rest of my life.
What are your goals?
My goals are the same as they have always been, which are to continue to do my part to support our community. Specific goals as Alderman are:
A) Completion of the “One site” recreation complex including the 4th field as a multi purpose field and a playground for smaller children and a Splash pad.
B) Infrastructure improvements which include Streets and water and sewage.
C) And of course Economic development , which I am uniquely qualified to assist our new Mayor with through not only our Industrial District, but which also should include efforts within our City for small business as well and events to bring guest to our community.
CANDIDATE PROFILES: DISTRICT 3 ALDERMAN
Patsy Leonard
Why did you want to run?
I wanted to run for city alderman so that I can help make the decisions that will take Springhill to a bigger and brighter future.
Why should someone vote for you?
Because of my life experiences, as well as business experiences, I feel that I am more than qualified for the job of city alderman.
What do you want voters to know about you?
Because I am retired, I can devote 100% of my time and energy to work for every resident in Springhill.
What are your goals?
Everyone has dreams and goals but they are not always realistic, so my main goal is to take what we do have and work on making it better.
Kristina Marshall
Why did you want to run?
I would like to make a change in Springhill. I want to see the city grow and get the community involved in helping with the growth. Bring new businesses and activities for all age groups. I would like to see the businesses thrive and grow as well.
Why should someone vote for you?
I am wanting to improve the neighborhoods in my district. I have some fresh new ideas to bring activities for all ages. I would like to attract new businesses to the city.
What do you want voters to know about you?
I was born and raised in Texas. After my husband and I got married we made Springhill our home and planted our roots. We have two boys in the school system and we love Springhill. I have family that enjoy their visits and eventually want to move to Springhill and plant their roots as well.
What are your goals?
I want to clean up the city. Work in the neighborhoods in my district to clean them up and make them safe for everyone. Hey Work with others to bring in new businesses. Help all businesses thrive. Work with the Springhill Main Street to bring fun activities for all ages.