KENNETH LOVE
I'm Kenneth Love, and I'm running for 3rd District City Council. I've run for both council and mayor in the past. And yes, I keep running because I believe citizens deserve someone who will speak up and be their voice. Something we haven't had for a long time. I'm ready to challenge the status quo.
I'm not a polished, slick politician. Being originally from Louisiana, I'm about as down-to-earth and real as it gets. I'm proud to be a citizen of Independence, but I'm concerned with the direction the city has gone in the last 10 years. I want to be the council member who's truly for the citizens – not myself or some special interest group.
There are so many issues and problems that have been ignored; it's hard to know what to tackle first. But I've been chewing on some things since I decided to run again, and I feel there are a few issues that need addressing sooner than later. Let me lay them out for you so you know where I stand and what I want to do.
First, and probably one of the most important issues, is wasteful spending. It sure seems like the city thinks money grows on trees, but we need to cut the fat. Tighten our purse strings and put your hard-earned dollars where they matter most – like fixing our deteriorating roads.
Our streets are looking rough, and I'm sure citizens' cars have taken a beating because of it. It's time we adopt an entire street maintenance program – not just for a few of the main roads. Potholes the size of moon craters are going to end up costing citizens. Let's smooth things over and make our roads and driving experience better.
When it comes to crime, especially the uptick in violent crimes, we have to stop turning a blind eye. I aim to work hand in hand with our law enforcement to tackle this head-on. Safe streets are happy streets, and I won't back down on this because citizens deserve a safe city.
The homeless crisis is another growing problem we need to start addressing. It's time to roll up our sleeves and find real solutions. I know the struggles the homeless face. Let's not just talk about helping; let's start finding a solution.
We also have a slum landlord problem. Many investors and individual rental property owners have gotten away with violations for too long. We need strict enforcement of licensing, hefty fines for neglecting properties, and making sure the repairs actually get done. It's time for landlords to clean up their act and give renters homes that are clean and safe.
I've been a resident here in Independence for 24 years now, and I'm no stranger to the needs of this city – owning a small rental property business myself has given me a front-row seat to the ongoing problems.
Citizens are the heart and soul of Independence, and it's about time their voices are heard. I'm running for council to be a representative for citizens who'll listen to them, speak up, and fight for real change. Let's make Independence a place we're all proud to call home again.
Vote Kenneth Love on February 6th for 3rd District Council – the no-frills, no slick rhetoric choice for a city that deserves better. Together, we'll make changes happen.
I sincerely appreciate your support.