By SALINA POST
During the month of Oct., the Salina Post will be publishing a series of profiles introducing the community to the six Salina City Commission candidates and school board member candidates for USD 306, USD 305, and USD 307.
The Salina Post sent questionnaires to the candidates asking for biographical information and why it is they decided to run for public office.
The general election will be Nov. 7. The deadline to register for the 2023 Election is Oct. 17 before 8 p.m.
If you live outside of Saline County check with your local elections officer for election deadlines.
Chad Farber
What is your Age?
48
What is your profession?
Pastor & Realtor
Are you an incumbent?
No
Give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less
My family and I moved to Salina in 2013 to pastor the Central Baptist Church. Prior to this, we served in Hattiesburg, Mississippi as Assistant Pastor and School Administrator. I have 2 children and 2 grandchildren who also reside in Salina.
I presently serve on the Salina Planning Commission and am a licensed Realtor in the state of Kansas.
Please explain why you are running for city commission in 500 words or less.
It is time for a change in representation and form of government in Salina. It seems that the same people are repeatedly making the same decisions while Salina languishes in mediocrity.
While we have seen expansions, new businesses and jobs come to our area, our population numbers remain flat and have actually decreased over the last 10 years. While we see new additions to the community in the area of arts and sporting facilities, we suffer under an overbearing tax burden. While we see new houses being built, many of the new housing developments are cost-prohibitive to the majority of Salinans.
Salina has been under the Commission-City Manager form of government since 1921. I believe the Mayor-Council form of government would better suit our city. Salina is now at the stage where we should have an elected Mayoral position and have district voting and representation among the commissioners. This would lead to better and more localized representation for every part of our city.
I want to be a voice for the people of Salina. Whether actual or perceived, many people voice that they feel a disconnect between themself and our city governance. There needs to be a concerted effort to make decisions on what is in the best interest of Salina citizens and not just what is best for the budget. Salina should be a place where people want to stay when they graduate or retire. We need to focus on making Salina financially, economically, and morally attractive.