Last year, after a lot of thought and consultation with my family, I decided to run for Mayor of Evansville.
Evansville deserves better.
Let me share something about my background. I wasn’t born in Evansville–but I got here as soon as I could.
My father was in the U.S. Air Force. That’s why I was born in West Germany. It’s why my first memories are of Naples, Italy. Our family followed my father’s postings around Europe and America for the whole of my childhood.
I’ve been working since I was 14 years old. From babysitting full-time in the summers during high school to waiting for restaurant tables, catering, McDonald’s, mowing grass, and painting, I did whatever it took to move out of the genteel poverty of my childhood. At times this included sewing my own clothes and it always meant never eating out. Unless it was at the restaurant I was working for.Â
I worked these same jobs during college, where I was a Pell Grant student. Â
As an adult, I worked in law firms, including 6 years setting up my husband’s law practice with him. He had to hire three people to replace me when I was elected County Assessor.Â
My private sector experience has always informed my work as an elected official. I know just how hard it is for families to make ends meet. The kitchen table is not always loaded with food; it is often covered in bills and spreadsheets and calculations to make ends meet.Â
Those experiences taught me about duty and service. And it also taught me what it takes to make a home.
I’ve made my home in Evansville. I raised two children here. Now, two granddaughters live here. And I want Evansville to be the best it can be for them–and for all of us, and for all of our families.
Making Evansville the best it can be will take a mayor who can lead. As County Commissioner, I’ve worked with my colleagues. We brought raises for sheriffs, new cycling and running paths, a better Burdette Park, and universal broadband to the unincorporated county.  I’ve shown that I can lead.
In my career, I’ve learned how experienced public servants can help their communities thrive. Even what seem like small details require your full attention from the beginning.
I know being your mayor will be a challenge. But I also think it’s my duty–for my family and for the city I’ve chosen as my home.
Being mayor is a big job.
The next mayor will need to restore leadership to our police. She will have to clean up the parks and pave the roads. Over four years, she will oversee more than one point six billion dollars in spending. Hundreds of people will work under her direction.
Who do you trust with that responsibility?
As a candidate, it’s my duty to convince you that I’m the best person for the job. As citizens, you have the most important task: choosing the right candidate.
My record shows I can make tough decisions.
My experience shows that I can work as part of a team–and I work across party lines.
I am ready to work for you. From day one. Make the best choice for Evansville.
