Union County voters will see a wide range of local, legislative and statewide contests on the June 2 primary ballot. Races vary by precinct, but Republican voters county‑wide will decide several competitive contests. Sample ballots for all precincts appear in this week’s edition.

Because of space limitations, not all candidates on the ballot were included in the Q&A section.

Sheriff:

1. What experience and training best prepare you to serve as sheriff?

2. What do you see as the most important responsibilities of the sheriff’s office?

3. What are the top public safety issues facing the county, and how would you address them?

4. How will you ensure transparency, accountability, and communication with the public?

Presley Helm 1. I believe my experience across multiple areas of law enforcement has prepared me well to serve as sheriff. Over more than a decade in law enforcement, I’ve worked in corrections, patrol, investigations, and executive leadership, including serving as Chief of Police. I’m certified as a Field Training Officer and Drug Recognition Expert and have coordinated training in active shooter response, interdiction, and mental health response. I’m also continuing my education in cyber operations to better prepare for the growing role technology and cyber‑related crime play in modern law enforcement.

2. The sheriff’s office is responsible for public safety, fair enforcement of the law, professional jail operations, and serving the community with integrity. I believe the sheriff should lead from the front by being present, visible, and accessible. Building trust with citizens is essential. It’s also important to maintain strong working relationships with local police, fire, EMS and the Highway Patrol so agencies can work together efficiently. Effective public safety depends on cooperation, communication, and a commitment to serving the entire county.

3. One of the biggest public safety issues facing the county is the lack of strong working relationships between the Sheriff’s Office and other agencies. Public safety improves when agencies communicate, support one another, and work toward common goals. I would rebuild those relationships through regular leadership meetings, joint training, and in‑house training open to all departments. We must also stay proactive in addressing drugs, wanted individuals, and parole or probation absconders entering from larger metro areas like Sioux City, Omaha, and Sioux Falls. Strong partnerships and proactive enforcement are essential to keeping our communities safe.

4. Transparency, accountability and communication start with being visible and accessible. I believe the Sheriff’s Office should actively use social media to keep citizens informed about incidents, emergency updates and public safety concerns when appropriate, while maintaining operational integrity. I also support providing monthly and yearly statistical reports so the public understands trends and activity. Being present in local communities and available through public meetings is essential. Accountability comes from open communication and attending county and city council meetings to answer questions and provide updates.

James Prouty 1. With the past two years leading the Union County Sheriff’s Office, along with more than 15 years serving Union County, including positions as Sergeant and Chief Deputy, and over 19 years in law enforcement, I have gained first‑hand experience in nearly every area of public safety. My 24 years of mili‑tary service and multiple deployments strengthened my leadership, decision-making, and commitment to ser‑vice. Those experiences continue to shape how I lead our office today – with accountability, professionalism, respect, and a strong focus on supporting both our employees and the communities we serve.

2. As Union County Sheriff, I have made protecting the people of Union County the foundation of the office. This means enforcing laws fairly, responding when people need help most, supporting victims, maintaining courthouse and jail security, and building strong relationships throughout the community. Leading this office also means making sure deputies, dispatchers, jailers, and all staff have the training, support and leadership needed to do their jobs safely and professionally. Public trust is earned through service, visibility, and constant communication with the people we represent.

3. Serving as Sheriff, I view drug activity, mental health-related calls, traffic safety and retaining qualified staff as challenges Union County faces today. Addressing these issues requires proactive enforcement, strong partnerships with local agencies, continued training, and community involvement. Over the past several years, I have focused on maintaining a visible presence throughout Union County while ensuring our deputies, jailers, dispatchers, and staff are prepared, equipped, and supported to respond effectively to the evolving needs of our communities. Attending Sheriff conferences and discussing shared challenges with fellow Sheriffs also continues to provide valuable support in addressing public safety issues.

4. Throughout my proven career serving Union County, I have worked to be visible, approachable, and accountable to the people I serve. As Sheriff, I’ve made communication with our communities a priority through community events, social media, and direct conversations with citizens. I believe trust is earned by being honest, accessible, and consistent every day. The people of Union County deserve leadership that listens, responds, and stands with them. As Union County Sheriff, I continue to have an open-door policy and strive to be available and accessible to all citizens of Union County.

County Commissioner: 1. Why are you running for county commission, and what experience prepares you for this role?

2. What are your top priorities for the county over the next four years?

3. How should the county balance taxation with service needs?

4. How will you communicate with residents and ensure transparency in decision-making? District 1

Haley Markle 1. I am running because Union County is home, and I care deeply about its future. I served as an Army officer and helicopter pilot for 12 years, leading people and organizations through complex operations where preparation, accountability, and sound judgment mattered. Today, I own a real estate firm, hold a managing broker’s license in three states, and actively invest in real estate. Those experiences have given me a strong understanding of leadership, budgets, growth, infrastructure, property issues, and service to others. I believe in accountable, transparent government and I have the experience and work ethic to serve Union County well.

2. My top priorities are responsible growth, flood preparedness, infrastructure, public safety, and protecting the quality of life that makes Union County special. After the tremendous flooding our area has experienced, continued planning, emergency preparedness, and follow-through on current studies must remain a priority. We need leaders who will do the homework, attend the meetings, ask hard questions, and make informed decisions. I am willing to put in the work and go above and beyond to help choose the best path forward for Union County’s families, farmers, and landowners.

3. Government must live within its means. I believe in prioritizing core services, including roads, public safety, emergency response, and essential county operations, before expanding programs. Every expenditure should be justified. Union County’s growing tax base, driven by development, creates opportunity, but growth must be managed carefully so infrastructure keeps pace without placing an undue burden on existing residents and agricultural landowners. Taxpayers deserve disciplined budgeting, clear priorities, and decisions that protect both services and affordability.

4. Residents deserve to know how their tax dollars are spent and how decisions are made. I will communicate clearly, be accessible, and encourage residents to reach out with questions, concerns, and ideas. I support clear public information, open discussion, and making county business easier for people to understand. I have made my contact information available to voters because accessibility matters. Good leadership requires listening to residents, respecting different viewpoints, and answering directly for decisions made on behalf of the county.

William Shorma 1. I am running for Dakota Dunes Union County Commissioner to help keep Union County moving forward by improving safety, expanding quality of life, keeping government out of citizens’ way when possible, and maintaining county assets and a strong employee team. My experience includes leading five multi‑family businesses on behalf of my siblings, keeping them informed, resolving conflicts, and practicing honest, open communication. I have also served in the South Dakota House, state and local chambers, for‑profit and nonprofit boards, and church councils. These roles have prepared me to serve effectively and responsibly.

2. Listen, set priorities, lay out plans, work the plans to keep costs low, and free up capital to maximize the quality of county streets, roads, and bridges. Manage County leaders to assure a quality staff.

3. Always maximize the most effective use of tax dollars to keep taxation as low as possible. Strive to use County growth to expand services.

4. I will communicate with residents however they would prefer. Phone, Email, Texts, Face to Face, Letters, News articles, Commission minutes. I work for the citizens and am open to all ideas. Of course, time, leadership, and available money will determine the course of action - situation by situation. I will work hard on your behalf, should you vote for me to serve.

District 3 Richard Headid 1. I’m running because I care about the future of our county and believe experienced, steady leadership matters. With more than 10 years as a commissioner, I understand budgeting, infrastructure, public safety and economic development. I know how county government works, how to build consensus and how to make practical, common‑sense decisions that protect taxpayers. I’m running again because there is still important work to do, and our county needs leadership that listens, plans for long‑term growth and makes accountable decisions from day one.

2. My top priorities include long‑term flood recovery and resiliency after the 2024 flood. With more than 10 years of experience as a former county commissioner, I know how important it is to strengthen infrastructure, improve drainage and work with state and federal partners. I also want to continue responsible financial management and protect taxpayer dollars through careful budgeting. Roads, bridges and essential infrastructure remain critical for safety and economic growth. I support economic development that maintains our quality of life and encourages cooperation with cities, schools and emergency services. Above all, county government must stay accessible and responsive.

3. Balancing taxes with service needs is one of county government’s most important responsibilities. Taxpayers deserve responsible spending and reliable services. My approach is to focus on priorities, manage dollars carefully and make decisions based on long‑term value. Public safety, roads, emergency management and public health must be maintained efficiently. I support avoiding unnecessary spending, pursuing grants and planning projects responsibly. Transparency is essential so residents understand how funds are used. My goal is to maintain strong services while keeping taxes reasonable and stable.

4. Communication and transparency are essential. People may not agree with every decision, but they expect honesty and accessibility. I will continue being available, attending community events and responding directly to concerns. County government should communicate proactively about meetings, budgets, projects and major decisions. Transparency builds trust. I believe in open, respectful decision‑making that considers different viewpoints and focuses on the county’s long‑term interests. I’m committed to keeping the public informed and ensuring county government remains accessible and accountable.

Robert J. Ballard 1. I wish to continue in my role as a current common sense conservative county commissioner. My goal is to look at all sides of each issue put before us, and find the solution that best meets the needs of the majority of the community.

I believe in using the hardearned tax funds of the community we represent in a fiscally responsible manner. My work life experience as a department head of anesthesia in Denison, Iowa was beneficial regarding the importance of preparing an annual department budget and then managing the budget throughout the year.

2. I will prioritize fiscal responsibility in all issues, safety first in maintaining county roads and bridges, and discussing viable options for flood mitigation.

3. My goal is to strive to provide our community with their desired services while maintaining a reasonable budget.

4. As always, our county commissioner board meetings are open to the public, and the local newspaper reports the minutes of our meetings.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 District 5

Kevin Kuphal 1. Honestly, I am not a politician. My experience comes from being a community leader willing to stand up, voice my opinion, hear the facts and opinions of others, and make educated decisions. I believe in serving and giving back to the community, which is why I chose to run. In my day job, I work with various trades and industries, seeing projects of all sizes from concept to completion. I plan to bring these experiences to the county commission and help guide the courthouse renovation.

2. I want county commission meetings to be more accessible and efficient, and I want the community more engaged in what is happening in the county. I will listen to District 5 residents and ensure their voices are heard. I won’t simply fall in line—I’ll stand up for what I believe is right for District 5 and the county. I plan to bring a modern approach and expect the first year to be educational, learning what works and what doesn’t. Then I’ll address issues, implement efficiencies, and help define the county’s vision for the next 15 to 30 years.

3. I believe the county needs to generate more revenue through economic development. A healthy, thriving county economy will help to improve and upgrade all services, infrastructure, amenities, and agencies. This will all be done by aligning community priorities with the fiscal realities.

4. My phone number and email address will be available to those who need it. I’d encourage all to reach out to their representatives and communicate needs and concerns. Commission meetings should be live‑streamed and available for the public to participate in and view on their own time.

Peggy Ustad 1. I was appointed in October of 2024 to fulfill my late husband’s term (Milton) which ends this December.

With encouragement from others, I’ve decided to run for election. In my career as a graphic artist/art director, I needed to be creative and conscious of the budget allotted. Milton and I also farmed corn, beans and hay and ran a herd of commercial Red Angus cattle. I am continuing to farm with my sonin- law and his family.

2. My priority is to continue to be fiscally conservative. Unfunded state mandates continue to put stress on county coffers. I think maintaining our infrastructure is always a challenge. The county has been proactive in replacing aged bridges and has worked with engineers to prioritize those replacements. Old wooden bridges are being replaced with concrete box culverts, which are proven to be an effective long-term solution as well as a cost savings to the county. Agricul‑ture is the largest economic factor of our county and we need farmers to be able to get their product to market.

3. The county is the steward of the tax payers money. We need to live within a budget while trying to plan ahead for future needs. There will always be unanticipated expenditures for which we need to keep cost in mind. Smart budgeting is essential. 4. The commission minutes are not only published in the paper, but posted on the county website. I want to hear from county residents if they have questions or concerns. As commissioners, we are conscious about transparency and strive to keep that expectation. My phone number is on the county website or if they see me around, feel free to come talk to me.

Legislative

1. Why are you running for the Legislature, and what experience qualifies you to serve?

2. What are your top priorities for the upcoming session? 3. What is your approach to state spending, taxation, and long‑term fiscal policy?

4. How will you stay accessible and accountable to constituents? State Senate

Jeffrey D. Church 1. I’m running for our District 17 State Senate seat to bring conservative values representation to our District in Pierre. Our State budget, for example, has exploded since 2021 – increasing $2.5 billion over these past six years. And, we’ve added nearly 105 full-time equivalents (think State employees) over the same period.

This isn’t conservative. Thirty years of active-duty service in the U.S. Army, including five combat deployments, and degrees in Political Science (BA), Public Administration (MA), Law (JD), and sixty years of life experience qualify me to serve.

2. First, reduce our State budget spending to core government functions. Second, lower the State sales tax. Third, work with counties to find ways to eliminate all property taxes. Fourth, get help to residents of McCook Lake. It’s been two years since the flood and too little has been done by the State and Federal governments to help with recovery. Fifth, related to the fourth, improve our State’s water and electrical utilities infrastructure. Sixth, ensure the State has as secure a cyber infrastructure over our State utilities and government agencies as possible.

3. State spending must be brought under control. We do this by focusing on core government functions. Constitutionally, we must fully fund Medicaid – but most everything else in our State budget is discretionary. We decide what to spend and how much to spend. We should focus on infrastructure: roads, bridges, water delivery, wastewater treatment, flood mitigation, electricity generation, and grids to distribute that electricity. As for taxes, lower and less are better. We have to maintain public safety and our Judicial systems though – and that revenue must come from somewhere. Long-term: Spend less, Tax less, focus on core government functions.

4. All elected state Representatives and Senators have a phone number and email address listed on the South Dakota Legislative Research Council website. I will be available during the legislative days and evenings in Pierre during session. My campaign email address and phone number are listed on my campaign literature. I live in Vermillion and shop in Vermillion. If constituents want to contact me, it is simple to do. The most meaningful way I will remain accountable to constituents is the next election is only two years away. If I do not meet your conservative expectations, do not vote for me.

Sydney Davis 1. As a lifelong South Dakotan, I’m running to ensure the opportunities that made this state a great place to live, work, and raise a family remain for our kids and grandkids. My husband and I are raising our three children here while operating our cow‑calf business, and I work full-time as a nurse anesthetist, so we understand the challenges families face. Healthcare has taught me to stay calm, listen carefully, and focus on solutions. This campaign has been about listening, working hard, and getting results. I’d be honored to continue serving District 17.

2. My priorities are the practical, kitchen‑table issues South Dakota families care about: strong schools, access to healthcare, and addressing substance use and mental health. As a health‑care provider, I’ve seen how these issues affect our communities. As a parent, I understand what’s at stake for the next generation. South Dakotans don’t want drama— they want thoughtful leadership and real results. I’ll continue focusing on commonsense solutions, building coalitions to get things done, and ensuring District 17 has a strong voice in Pierre.

3. Planning ahead, using one‑time dollars for one‑time projects, and preparing for future obligations requires discipline. Core priorities like education, healthcare, and public safety must be funded adequately. Taxpayers' dollars should be spent wisely and efficiently. I do not support a state income tax. Long‑term fiscal stability doesn’t happen by accident. It takes thoughtful planning, honest budgeting, and elected officials willing to make responsible decisions even when it isn’t easy.

4. Accessibility matters to me. During session, I share regular updates through local newspapers, social media, and my website. My cell number is publicly available— call or text anytime. Most importantly, I’m your neighbor. My family and I are rooted in this community, and you’ll see us at ball games, the grocery store, and the county fair. That’s not just campaign language— it’s how I approach this job. Your questions, concerns, and feedback are always welcome, and they genuinely shape how I represent District 17.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 State House

Chris Kassin 1. I’m running for re-election because I believe deeply in the future of South Dakota and the people who make District 17 a great place to live, work and raise a family. Serving two terms has shown how important steady, thoughtful leadership is to keeping our state moving forward. My children remain at the heart of why I first ran—I want to preserve the opportunities that make South Dakota special and ensure future generations can build their lives here. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on relationships, opportunity and strengthening communities, and I’ve brought that practical, people‑focused approach to Pierre.

2. My priorities remain focused on the issues that matter most to South Dakota families and communities. The priorities of District 17 will always be my priorities— supporting education, protecting access to healthcare and elder care, maintaining responsible budgeting and addressing workforce and housing challenges. I also believe we must continue working on property‑tax relief while ensuring local communities have the tools they need to succeed. Because we have a citizen legislature, lawmakers return home and see firsthand how state decisions affect families, schools, businesses, and taxpayers. That perspective encourages practical problem‑solving rather than political theater.

3. South Dakota has benefited from careful budgeting and disciplined financial management, and we need to continue that approach. Government should live within its means and focus taxpayer dollars on core priorities like education, healthcare, public safety and infrastructure. Serving on the Joint Committee on Appropriations has reinforced the importance of distinguishing between one‑time revenue and ongoing obligations. We must avoid creating long‑term commitments that may not be sustainable. A citizen legislature also keeps lawmakers accountable because we return home and live under the same economic realities as everyone else.

4. One strength of South Dakota’s citizen legislature is that lawmakers remain part of the communities they serve. Outside the roughly 38‑day session, we are home raising families, working, attending events and talking with neighbors. From the beginning, I’ve worked to stay open, accessible and available to District 17. I’ve stayed connected through phone calls, emails, legislative forums, community events and everyday conversations. Accessibil‑ity starts with listening. People deserve elected officials who hear concerns, explain decisions honestly and stay engaged year‑round—not only during campaign season.

Robin Schiro 1. I am a Servant Leader who believes we must give back to our communities. I worked 40+ years as a Civil/ Mining Engineer from SDSM&T and am passionate about learning, giving, and problem‑solving.

Our children, elderly, veterans, residents, animals, and businesses are our greatest assets, and we must support, appreciate, and protect them.

I was honored to receive the United States Republican County Official of the Year as a County Commissioner and “Elk of the Year” from the Sioux City Elks Lodge.

2. Affordability—food, clothing, housing, healthcare, daycare, schooling, and property taxes:

• find other funding sourc‑es • decrease the effective property‑tax rate

• eliminate the food sales tax

• raise awareness of veteran suicides

• reduce human trafficking • eliminate abuse of power by elected officials

• ensure election integrity

• widen qualifications for elderly/disabled/veteran property-tax exemptions

• ensure all SD counties get the free NACo Prescription Drug Card

• encourage federal funding of 40% of special-education costs

• expand awareness of community‑supported child‑care programs (Boys & Girls Clubs) 3. We need to decrease the effective property‑tax rate. Some states pay around 0.5% of a home’s value, while South Dakota pays 1.14%–1.35%.

People on food stamps shop in Iowa to avoid food sales tax, so eliminating

the food tax would keep revenue local.

We must also find additional funding sources, including using unclaimed-property dollars after the legal dormancy period.

4. Legislators represent their constituents, so I would hold frequent town halls to understand where people stand on important issues. As a lifelong engineer, I would stay prepared, listen to all sides, and evaluate competing interests.

I have not taken campaign funding, including from special interests, so I can focus solely on the pros and cons of each issue—not anyone’s agenda.

Troy Redler 1. I’m running to bring a practical, real world voice to the Legislature—grounded in personal responsibility, limited government, and respect for taxpayers. My work in healthcare shows how state decisions affect families, small businesses, and access to care.

I offer hands on experience running a health‑care business— balancing budgets, managing regulations, and solving problems with limited resources. I understand rural healthcare challenges, work‑force shortages, and financial realities.

As a District 17 resident, I bring strong community ties and a focus on outcomes— ensuring South Dakota remains a place where families thrive, businesses grow, and government lives within its means.

2. The Legislature enters each session with one constitutional obligation: pass a balanced budget—and it’s getting harder as revenues fluctuate and federal funding declines.

My priorities reflect that reality: 1. Property Tax Relief & Affordability

•Continue efforts to address rising property taxes, a major issue across South Dakota.

•Focus relief on homeowners while keeping local governments sustainable.

2. Responsible Budgeting

•Prepare for tighter revenue conditions and less federal support.

•Prioritize core services: public safety, education, and infrastructure.

3. Workforce & Health‑care Access

•Strengthen rural work‑force pipelines in healthcare.

•Reduce regulatory burdens that make it harder to recruit and retain providers.

3. My philosophy is simple: this is the people’s money, and it should be treated with respect.

South Dakota has a longstanding tradition of fiscal discipline and balanced budgets, and we need to protect that.

Spending

•Focus on core government responsibilities, not expanding programs for the sake of growth.

•Be cautious about ongoing spending when revenues are uncertain.

Taxation

•Keep taxes low, stable, and predictable.

•Prioritize targeted relief (like property tax reform) over broad expansion.

Long-Term Fiscal Policy

•Plan beyond the next budget cycle—especially as sales tax revenue fluctuates.

•Demand transparency and accountability in every major spending decision.

4. If elected, staying connected to constituents will be a priority—not an after‑thought.

I will:

•Send simple, regular updates on what’s happening in Pierre

•Be accessible by phone, email, and in person

•Ask for feedback before major votes—not just after. And most importantly: I’ll explain not just what I voted for, but why.

Because accountability isn’t just about showing up at election time—it’s about earning trust every day.

I’m running to bring a practical, fiscally responsible voice to Pierre—focused on protecting taxpayers, strengthening our communities, and keeping South Dakota on the right track.

North Sioux City Commissioner

1. Why are you running for the North Sioux City City Commission, and what experience or perspective would you bring to the role?

2. What are your top priorities for the city over the next three years?

3. How should the city approach growth, development, and infrastructure planning?

4. How will you ensure transparency, communication, and responsiveness to residents?

Jeffrey T. Myers 1. With the hiring of Jeff Dooley as City Administrator and the election of Chris Bogenrief as Mayor, North Sioux City is moving in a positive direction. I want to help the city continue to grow and thrive. As a senior staff attorney at Goosmann Law Firm, I help clients through difficult situations and stand up for what I believe in. I’ve also served in leadership roles for several local organizations, including as president of the Cosmopolitan Club and McCook Lake Recreation Association. Having lived here many years, I care deeply about North Sioux City’s future.

2.

My top priority is being accountable to residents by listening to and understanding

their needs. I will work to carefully manage city spending and help reduce the tax burden on residents. I support pursuing federal disaster‑relief funding for those still recovering from the flood. Affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization remain important, and I fully support the Housing Rehabilitation Committee’s efforts. I am also committed to strengthening our parks and recreation programs to make North Sioux City an even more attractive place to live, work and raise a family.

3. The city’s future growth will be guided by the Comprehensive Community Plan, which supports thoughtful, sustainable development. I also support the goals of the HRC Committee and continued focus on affordable housing and long‑term planning. As the city grows, cybersecurity must remain a priority. Expanding affordable housing will help attract families, strengthen our workforce and support the local economy. We must also continue investing in infrastructure to meet current and future needs. Programs like the Community Block Grant and the Corps of Engineers Mitigation Plan will improve resiliency and help prepare North Sioux City for future challenges.

4. Although resisted by my opponent, Mr. Tucker, the City recently adopted a formal code of conduct. I’ve sensed for a long time that residents lacked trust in city hall due to limited transparency and communication. One of my primary goals is to assure citizens of full transparency and rapid communication— unlike what occurred during the flood. Communication and responsiveness are in everyone’s best interest. Hard decisions will be required, and I am willing to stand in the fire. My focus will always be on representing the citizens of North Sioux City to the best of my ability.

Vincent Tucker 1. I am running for reelection to continue the progress I started. In one year, I have achieved many goals and helped numerous people, seeing real change in our community, like providing dirt for Penrose yards. Though progress has been slow, I am grateful to be part of this restoration. I understand the expectations of North Sioux City residents and am committed to doubling my efforts to serve all neighborhoods fairly. I listen to concerns, voice issues, and represent everyone’s interests. I am confident I can keep bringing the community’s perspective to the City Commission and making their voices heard.

2. My priority is to represent North Sioux City’s residents to the best of my ability. Infrastructure for flood victims is being built, housing options are growing, and people are reclaiming losses. Over the next three years, I want to oversee North Sioux City’s expansion—with new homes, businesses, and job growth. I also aim to address challenges like traffic on S. Sodrac Drive. These important changes will require careful decisions, always made for the benefit of all North Sioux City residents. I am committed to guiding these developments to improve our community’s future.

3. North Sioux City is growing rapidly, requiring updated amenities like infrastructure, sewer systems, and housing. We have made progress with a major water project and new equipment at Union Crossing, but more work is needed as the city expands and ages. The biggest challenge slowing growth is the lack of housing. New developments are underway, but we must prioritize affordable housing for families, workers, and individuals starting out. Focusing on affordable homes, refurbishing existing ones, and creating safe neighborhoods will build a strong, lasting community. The pieces are in place— we just need to bring them together.

4. I ran for Commissioner based on three core beliefs: transparency, communication, and response. Citizens deserve to know what is happening in their city and trust their City Commission’s decisions. Transparency ensures they stay informed, while communication keeps them engaged in changes. It is vital to listen to their thoughts and concerns—change cannot happen without their input. Most importantly, response shows people they are heard. With 33 years as an educator, these principles have guided me successfully with students and parents, and they continue to shape my work serving North Sioux City’s community.