Donna Gregory is running for Claremont city council. Her name was not on the first list of candidates, but is on the ballot for city council. She introduces herself in her own words.
I purchased my Claremont home 2 years ago this month. I am an avid gardener. In my two Spring, Summer & Autumn seasons here numerous citizens continue to stop by my home via their bikes, golf carts, and walking with their children & dogs for their well-being. During those times many have shared with me their thoughts and concerns- the positives, the challenges and the realities of life in Claremont. Thus, I understand why many citizens have told me that in recent years they chose not to attend the monthly council meetings. Their experiences were frustrating and unsatisfactory. They often felt unwelcomed. I have attended most monthly council meetings to 'see for myself' the process of living in a small and still viable town. Most often I have been the only one there who attends as a general citizen. While attending council meetings, I too have often felt unwelcomed and intentionally ignored; my genuinely asked questions were sometimes unprofessionally answered or dismissed. Such an atmosphere needs immediate and positive change without the fear of negative repercussions.
Our city has a good and diverse range of hardworking, pleasant and intelligent residents. Their presence at council meetings should be welcomed and acknowledged every time and allowed time to speak and respond to the council's agenda. The purpose of a city council and the admin duties - is to genuinely serve for the betterment of - We The Taxpayers and community. The council's job and obligation is to work -for us. Nepotism, favoritism and a small group power control presence defeats a council's true purpose. Big cities or small, this is their duty. If it does not work, then positive and constructive change must be implemented. I believe we have the potential for building a solid and happily growing community/town when our ideas are welcomed, discussed and when possible, actualized.
As a council member, I will focus on actualizing- much more transparency, clarity, and easier access to information and answers regarding: where/how our taxes are spent, the budget structure, the high water costs, complete and easier access to past and current information on the city's investments of our money in cd's and savings; what are the monetary amounts? We require more details/summations of the work and accomplishments of hired employees. Raises should be earned, not assumed. More clarity is required here. I feel that We The People should have much more input as to how decisions are made and actualized. The council has an obligation to - ask our community first, as often as possible. It is the council's duty to let the people know they are welcome and encouraged to participate.
It is said that across America "drugs are everywhere". This harm and danger also occurs in Claremont. I would like to sincerely thank our Sheriffs for continually working to remove/defeat this unsafe challenge to all of us; adults and the children. The drug activity harms our city's reputation and may affect the future growth of our city. As your council member I commit to staying available and approachable to hear, address and actualize solutions for your concerns and suggestions. I BELIEVE there is HOPE for our City of Claremont. Your vote is appreciated.
Casey Striver is running for Mayor of Claremont as a write-in candidate
Casey stated that he decided to run for Mayor because he is a member of the community affected by the issues in town. He has a strong commitment to improving and growing the town and raising the quality of living for all citizens will be his key priority.
His main objectives are to cut unnecessary spending, fix longstanding issues and bring a voice to all citizens.
“Every day residents bring up in conversation that the city is spending too much money but none of that money goes to benefit the people,” Casey says. “A mayor’s job is to fix problems to improve the quality of life. We must open are ears and focus more on what really matters to our neighbors. My ears are open, I hear you and know that I'm working with you. It's time for REAL change.”
Casey grew up in Owatonna and moved to Claremont. He is married and they have a sixteen year old son and a six year old daughter. He came from a close family consisting of ten brothers. His grandparents owned and rented houses between Owatonna and Waseca and he credits their values with instilling a good work ethic in him s a young man growing up. He started out buying and fixing cars and now invests in properties by buying and remodeling homes. He has always liked to make things better by fixing them. In the past he has helped to build Habitat for Humanity homes. His crew includes his son and brother.
He believes in taking away the barriers and allowing people to succeed on their own and help the town to prosper by encouraging economic activity.
