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By Carol Arnett

All of the odd numbered wards in the city of Florissant are up for election April 3, but only two of the five incumbents have opponents.

Tim Lee, from Ward 1, Joe Eagan, from Ward 3, and Keith Schildroth, from Ward 5, are all running unopposed. In Ward 7, incumbent Karen McKay faces challenger Jackie Bond Pagano, and in Ward 9, incumbent Ben Hernandez faces challenger Michael Bober.

The Independent News asked each candidate the same questions. Portions of their responses follow.

Why are you running? was the first question. McKay sited her long years on the council and her 32 years of running a business in the city. “My years on the council have provided knowledge which has helped solve problems for Ward 7 residents,” she said. “I believe that our direction in the future will be based on the choices we make today.”

Pagano said that she felt fortunate to grow up in a family that valued public service.  Now that her children are grown, she said, “I have the time to dedicate myself to the community.” She added, “Now is the time to give back to Florissant all that it has given me.”

What are some of the biggest challenges facing the city? McKay said that the city needs to “remain diligent in maintaining the value of neighborhoods.” She also said it was imperative to fully staff and fund the police department. Also, she said, “our local government must continue a working relationship with other governing bodies which will improve conditions that serve the true needs of our citizens.”

Pagano agrees that safety is a concern, as well as keeping neighborhoods maintained. “We also need to maintain and bring new businesses to the area,’ she said, adding that she would encourage appropriate development.

What are the city’s biggest strengths? “The citizens are a big part of our city’s strength,” McKay said. She also counts the park system, city staff and many programs provided for seniors and families among the city’s strengths. Another strength, she says, “is the wealth of history we have to share.”

Pagano also calls the residents the city’s biggest strength. “Their concerns and ideas need to be listed to, responded to and built upon,” she said.

Why should residents vote for you?

McKay said her years of experience on the council work in her favor. “I have worked to establish a high level of communication with Ward 7 residents through personal conversations, communication, and meetings.” She adds that she will “continue to be a voice for he residents by advocating for their desire and best interests at the city level.”

McKay, a 32-year Florissant business owner, has a list of community, civic and business involvement. She’s a former Chamber Business Person of the  Year, founding co-chair of the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, NCI’s Elmer Belsha Leadership Award winner, the Annie Malone Children’s Services Heroes and Heroines Award recipient, and Soroptimist’s Women Helping awardee.

Pagano said she has grown up in a family who were deeply involved in the development of the city,” Her father was the late County Councilman Don Bond.  She has also served on the Citizen Participation Committee and been active at Our Lady of Fatima parish and CBC high school.

In Ward 9, incumbent Ben Hernandez and challenger Michael Bober were asked the same questions.

“I am running for my third term as City Councilman because I care about Florissant,” Hernandez said. “I feel I have gained invaluable experience during these past six years, and I want to continue to help address resident and city issues. “

“I want to keep the city a great place to live,” said Bober. He said he would work to keep all residents informed and involved.

Hernandez feels that the biggest challenge the city faces is housing.  “There are many foreclosures and abandoned homes throughout the city,” he said. “My support of economic development creates new jobs.”

Bober would also like to see housing maintained through stronger code enforcement. He would also work to attract new businesses.

Hernandez said that one of the biggest strengths of the city is the sense of community. “Our neighbors care about each other and our property, and when there is a challenge or need, our neighbors come together.”  He also called the police department a great asset to the city.

Bober said that residents were the city’s biggest strength. “When people get involved, great things can happen,” he said. “I think it is important to visit with residents on a regular basis and listen to their ideas.”

Why should someone vote for each candidate?  “I have always been quick to respond and address resident’s questions and issues.” Hernandez said.  “My work experience at McDonnell Douglas, serving as a church board member and service in the United States Marine Corps has provided me with many interpersonal and leadership skills.”

Bober said he has been an active citizen, serving on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. He was also awarded as one of the Thirty Leaders in their Thirties last year by North County Incorporated. “I believe the city has a lot to offer its residents and that we can all continue to build on what makes this a great place to live.”

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