We are fortunate to live in a nation where freedom of speech is cherished, and I sincerely value the input of each individual. I recognize the apprehension surrounding newcomers stepping into the political sphere. I want to make it clear that I haven’t sought any campaign contributions; my campaign is funded entirely out of my own pocket, acknowledging that many in our community are struggling to make ends meet. My attention is centered on the governance of Johnstown. 

 

For those who were unable to make it to the Johnstown Breeze candidate forum or are just now starting to familiarize themselves with their electoral choices, I’d like to take this moment to introduce myself and outline my vision for Johnstown.

 

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, I engaged in multiple sports as a youth. After completing high school, financial constraints prevented me from pursuing higher education right away, leading me to enlist in the military at 18, in July 2003, to serve my country and further my education. Throughout my military service, despite being deployed and working long hours as a military police officer, I managed to earn an associate’s degree in criminal justice from the Community College of the Air Force, followed by a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and Social Psychology, and a Master’s degree in Security Management from American Military University. Currently, I am working towards a Doctorate in Computer Science at Colorado Technical University.

 

My faith in God is a cornerstone of my identity.

 

My commitment to Johnstown’s future is unwavering, with a vision for controlled, sensible growth. The disrespect I witnessed at town hall meetings, where citizens’ voices were cut off, prompted my decision to run for office. I was among those whose concerns were brushed aside, and I remember the current mayor expressing a preference for watching Monday night football rather than engaging with community issues. I promised then to challenge him in the 2024 elections, and I am a man of my word.

 

The military instilled in me the values of leadership and taking decisive action. Observing the general dissatisfaction with the status quo, I chose to step forward, ready to face any opposition fearlessly, with a commitment to ensuring the voices of Johnstown’s residents are heard and respected.

 

Top on my agenda is the refurbishment of the Senior Recreation Center, a project in dire need of attention and funding. Additionally, strengthening our police force by creating opportunities for military veterans is a priority, helping them transition into meaningful roles within our community. Working alongside the town manager, I aim to tackle budget concerns and ensure our infrastructure, including the dire need for connecting sidewalks from newer developments to downtown and our education institution, meets our community’s needs.

 

Believing strongly in the transformative power of education, I am dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for our children, working in partnership with community leaders. Active community participation is key to enacting real, positive change—I am committed to walking this path, not merely talking about it.

 

Achieving unity with the newly elected council from the outset is critical to my vision for Johnstown. It’s also time to reassess financial agreements with builders under existing contracts. With the prospect of choosing between two mayoral candidates, sticking with the familiar out of habit will not address our challenges. It’s time for change, and your vote can usher in that change. On a lighter note, as a family man, I must also prioritize my time at home to avoid the proverbial couch.

 

If my vision for Johnstown doesn’t resonate with you, remember, our Constitution upholds your right to choose the candidate you believe is right for the job.