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Overland Park Council Ward 5 Choose 1

Voter Guide

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Andrew Payne (Non)

Biographical Information

Ballot City Overland Park
Campaign Web Site http://www.payne4op.com
Campaign Phone 7857600677
Personal Biography Andrew has called Overland Park home for 12 years. His wife, Heather, is an elementary school administrator, and their son, Henry, is a first-grader. A proud graduate of Kansas public schools, Andrew earned his degree from KU (Phi Beta Kappa) and his law degree from Washburn. He clerked for the Kansas Supreme Court and now serves as VP and General Counsel of a financial services firm. He’s active in his HOA, a graduate of Leadership OP, and served on the Framework OP land use advisory committee.
Education B.A. University of Kansas, Phi Beta Kappa (Economics, Political Science); Juris Doctorate, Washburn University School of Law, Magna Cum Laude
Community/Public Service Hampton Place Homeowners Association; Blue Valley Legislative Education and Advocacy Group (BVLEAG)

What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?

First, we must successfully implement Framework OP, our city’s new comprehensive plan. It’s a forward-thinking vision, but turning it into action will require thoughtful leadership and a commitment to smart, sustainable growth.

Second, we need to reinvest in the basics: safe streets, strong infrastructure, and well-maintained public spaces. These are the foundations of thriving neighborhoods and must remain a top priority.

Third, we should focus on keeping Overland Park a place where people can live at every stage of life, with housing options for young professionals, families, and retirees alike. That means thoughtful planning, supporting local businesses, and ensuring everyone benefits from a growing economy.

What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?

I bring professional expertise, community leadership, and a deep understanding of Overland Park’s needs. As VP and General Counsel of a nationally recognized financial firm headquartered here, I work every day to solve difficult problems, and make strategic decisions that impact people’s lives. I serve on my HOA board, where I’ve spent five years listening to the concerns of neighbors and organizing events that build community. I’m also the father of a 1st grader, and my wife is an elementary school administrator, giving me a strong, personal stake in our schools and neighborhoods. I know how to listen, build consensus, and get things done. I’ve built a career helping others succeed, and I’m ready to put those same skills to work for OP.

What makes this office an important part of the local government?

The City Council is the level of government closest to the people and often the one that most directly affects our daily lives. From public safety to roads, parks, and planning, the Council helps shape the neighborhoods we call home. It’s responsible for creating the conditions where families and businesses can thrive. That means investing in strong infrastructure, keeping our community safe, and being a good partner to local schools and neighborhoods. If I am elected, I will be a dedicated public servant who takes that responsibility seriously.

Voter Guide

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Alexandria Washington (Non)

Biographical Information

Ballot City Overland Park
Campaign Web Site http://alexandriaforopks.com
Personal Biography Alexandria Washington is a longtime Overland Park resident with over 20 years of deep community roots. With a vision to foster economic growth, inclusive policies, and public safety, she brings a powerful mix of leadership experience and community dedication to everything she does. Alexandria holds master’s degrees in Organization Development (Avila University, 2013) and Financial Planning (Kansas State University, 2023), and currently serves as Director of Operations at a local financial firm.
Education Saint Thomas Aquinas High School (2005) / Master’s degree in Organization Development from Avila University (2013) / Master's degree in Financial Planning from Kansas State University (2023)
Community/Public Service Theatre for Young America / Arts Council of Johnson County / Theatre Community Fund of Kansas City: Founding Board President / FrameWork OP: Steering Committee

What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?

Investing in Infrastructure and Green Spaces Our city’s growth demands a robust strategy for updating aging infrastructure! This includes roads, sidewalks, and community areas (like neighborhood aquatic centers). I want to concentrate on weaving in accessible, thoughtfully designed parks and green corridors. By investing in Complete Streets and tree-lined trails, we can enhance safety, sustainability, and community health, all while attracting families and businesses to our district.

Expanding Affordable Housing One of the greatest challenges facing our city is trying to maintain steady growth without pricing longtime residents out. I support targeted, well designed affordable housing projects that are fiscally responsible for the city.

What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?

Project Management & Fiscal Responsibility In my professional role as Director of Operations at a wealth management firm in Overland Park I’ve managed multi year budgets, coordinated stakeholder feedback, and delivered concrete results on schedule and within budget.

Communication Skills I obtained a Master’s degree in Organization Development from Avila University (2013) and a Master's degree in Financial Planning from Kansas State University (2023). I excel in connecting with people one on one, translating complex plans into accessible language, and bringing even skeptical voices into important decisions.

Proven Record in Collaboration & Leadership Serving on various local boards/committees taught me how to negotiate diverse viewpoints.

What makes this office an important part of the local government?

I believe that the city council sets the strategic direction of the city. Councilmembers approve the vision, policies, and long term investment priorities that shape where we live, how we move, and how we thrive together! This keeps our government transparent, efficient, and aligned with community values.

City Council also represents community needs. Members are the bridge between residents and government: elevating concerns, championing neighborhood voices, and translating local needs into constructive action. City Council can also drive inclusive growth. This office balances growth with equity while preserving character, expanding opportunity, and ensuring city improvements serve every resident.