By: BILL LONGBINE
As a lifetime 4th generation Salina resident this is my home and community. My wife and I were married here nearly 44 years ago. We raised two sons who essentially went to the same schools I attended in the 1960’s and 70’s. My wife and I attend and serve at Crosspoint Church.
I worked in local industries for 45 years. During these years I learned to work together in teams and collaborated to find the best solutions for complex issues and processes. Finding the most efficient cost effective solutions was imperative to continued success. After my employment ended I returned to college and received an AAS degree in computer networking/security.
I have been active and engaged in the community. Always making it a priority to attend my assigned boards and committees. These range from Economic Development, and the Chamber, to the Public Library, Convention and Tourism and Arts & Humanities. These boards have given me a broad view of how things get accomplished in Salina. It has been very fulfilling as a commissioner to attend groundbreakings and see projects completed and be able to take part in the ribbon cuttings. During my term as a commissioner, I have enjoyed participating in community events from Martin Luther King Day in January to Veteran’s Day and the Mayors Christmas party in December.
If reelected, I will work to continue thinking forward for continued progress in Salina. We have seen a tremendous amount of growth and development in the past few years. I would like to continue the momentum for continued prosperity
During my 1st term as a commissioner, I have gained a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge. After the first year cycle I was able to grasp and understand the various departments and operations of the city. These range from Art’s & Humanities to Sanitation, and Parks to Utilities. I’ve found everything revolves around and depends on core services we sometimes take for granted. I would like to apply that experience to serve another term.
The key to growth in Salina has been available housing. We have wide job availability. Several housing projects are coming together to meet the goals of the 2020 housing study. As units come online, they are being filled and occupied. I believe Salina is poised for significant growth.
Maintaining a stable well equipped workforce to support the city is imperative. Public safety will always be a priority. I feel we are in a good position with a first class police training facility and well equipped officers who have the latest technology available. The past year we saw seven new fire trucks come into to service. A new modern fire station is under construction with completion scheduled for next May. These investments add to officers and firefighters’ safety as they respond to calls for service to protect the city. They also aid in recruitment of new employees to serve and protect the next generation.
It has been an honor to serve on the city commission the past three and a half years. While it is a big responsibility and requires a great deal of time, I am committed to serving the city and
listening to the citizens of Salina. I have found what is very important to one person or group seems like a waste to others. Finding that balance for the city is what makes Salina a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.
I ask for your support and vote on November 4th.
Sincerely,
Bill Longbine