The RB Landmark sent questionnaires to each person running for public office in 2025. The Landmark’s questions are in bold and the candidate’s responses are below.
Political experience
I have never held elected office, but I have extensive experience in public service and policy. I spent over 20 years in government, retiring as a police administrator, where I worked on policy, contracts, and government relations. I’ve also volunteered on numerous campaigns, gaining insight into the electoral process. I hold a master’s in public policy from Northwestern and a Ph.D. in organizational behavior, focusing on leadership in the public sector. These experiences equip me to serve effectively as trustee, ensuring responsible governance that strengthens our community.
Community experience
My community involvement has focused on engagement and service. I’ve lived in Riverside for eight years and worked to strengthen local institutions. I served 10+ years on the PAV YMCA Board and as board president helped eliminate debt so it could better serve families. As a father of two, I’ve been active in the Ames School PTA, leading the Artist in Residence program. I served as president of the Riverside Art Center promoting our arts corridor and also a key organizer of the local Daddy-Daughter Dance which fosters family bonds while raising funds for community initiatives.
How will you balance Riverside’s history and Olmstedian design with future development? How do you balance development with conserving tax dollars?
Riverside’s historic design makes it unique, and future development must respect that. I believe that growth should complement our community, not disrupt it. Thoughtful zoning, adaptive reuse, and community-driven planning should preserve our village while allowing for progress. I also believe that development should be fiscally responsible. We need to look into more smart investments, strategic partnerships, and projects that will grow our tax base without overburdening our residents to ensure Riverside remains both historic and sustainable.
How do you perceive Riverside is changing? What is the village board’s role in creating change, preserving history, or blending those two things?
Riverside is evolving as new families arrive, drawn by our schools, strong sense of community, and unique charm. Preserving that character is vital, but I also recognize that longtime and newer residents may have different expectations. As trustee, my role is to balance our historical identity with thoughtful growth. Change, when needed, should be intentional, incremental, and strategic to ensure broad acceptance. I will facilitate discussions that consider all perspectives, ensuring any adjustments are measured and not drastic. By championing small improvements, we can move forward while preserving what makes Riverside special.
Should the village seek to develop more transit-oriented development, or is such development reaching a saturation point?
Riverside should remain open to opportunities associated with transit-oriented development while ensuring any potential projects align with our village’s character and needs. Exploring economic benefits, such as increased property values and business growth, is essential while maintaining our historic integrity. Planning, community input, and strategic investment will ensure any TOD initiatives enhance walkability, improve accessibility, and support local businesses without compromising what makes Riverside unique.
What is the biggest challenge facing Riverside?
Riverside benefits from the hard work of its many committees, governing bodies, and community groups, all committed to improving our village. While these groups share similar goals, better communication and coordination could make these efforts even more effective. As trustee, I will stay connected and check in with these groups on a regular basis to stay informed. By keeping a pulse on these efforts, I hope to help build on the great work already being done to keep Riverside a strong, connected community.
As a member of the village board, how will you respond to Trump-administration policies at the local level?
As a trustee, my focus will remain on local issues that directly impact residents. Our village is well-managed by professional staff, and my role is to support policies that ensure efficient operations, fiscal responsibility, and community well-being. While national policies can affect local government, such as funding or regulations, I will address them pragmatically and work with stakeholders to find solutions. Federal and state level debates that don’t impact Riverside should not distract us, but I will advocate for our community when necessary while keeping the focus local.