Today is Election Day. I encourage you to put the public affairs mission into practice and vote. Two important matters are on the ballot in Springfield.
Selecting community leaders
First, we will elect a mayor and five council members for the City of Springfield.
The City of Springfield is an important partner on many university projects and initiatives. The Springfield City Council has exhibited extraordinary leadership on issues critical to Missouri State’s operations.
For example, in February the City Council passed a resolution encouraging the Missouri General Assembly to continue to provide funding for five higher education projects in southwest Missouri. One of those projects involves a direct state appropriation to Missouri State University, and the others have indirect impacts on Missouri State.
Connecting Missouri State, community
Ken McClure is one of two candidates running for mayor. McClure is a Missouri State alum and previously worked at the university as vice president of administrative and information services. He continues to work part-time for the university on government relations matters.
McClure is currently on City Council, and he sponsored the resolution supporting funding for the southwest Missouri higher education projects. That resolution passed 8-1, with the only “no” vote cast by his opponent for mayor.
You can find additional information about all the candidates running for City Council on KSMU’s webpage. Many of them have connections to Missouri State University and higher education.
Improving educational facilities
Second, we will decide on a proposition that would allow Springfield Public Schools to issue bonds to construct new facilities, renovate existing facilities, and furnish and equip school buildings. I joined with other college and university presidents in Springfield to write a letter published in the Springfield News-Leader encouraging residents to vote “yes” on this bond issue.
You can find additional information about the SPS bond issue on KSMU’s webpage.
Exercise your right
I would encourage everyone to learn about the candidates and issues and cast an educated vote. Regardless of how each of us votes, it is our responsibility as ethical leaders to participate in local, state and national elections.
Thanks for all you do for Missouri State!
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