Gardner Council At-Large Choose 2
Biographical Information
What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What makes this office an important part of the local government?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Ballot City
Gardner, KS
Campaign Web Site
http://www.KellyJohnsonForGardner.com
Campaign Phone
913-430-8030
Campaign Address
Kelly Johnson for Gardner City Council; 216 E. Westhoff Place; Gardner, KS 66030-1483
Mailing Address
216 E. Westhoff Place
Gardner, KS 66030-1483
Gardner, KS 66030-1483
Personal Biography
I’ve lived in JoCo for 30 of the last 40 years, and in Gardner for the past 6. I’m married to Scott and am mom to the best kid ever. My day job is as a paralegal. I’ve worked in law firm and corporate environments, supporting attorneys in the areas of education, employment, insurance subrogation, contracts, and healthcare law. My current role focuses on regulatory filings with the SEC. I am a problem-solver and a get-it-done person, and I’m hoping to bring those skills to the City Council.
Education
I have a Bachelor of General Studies with a concentration in Criminal Justice from Fort Hays State University.
Community/Public Service
I am a pup-foster for Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary. I am a parishioner at Divine Mercy and have helped teach religious education classes. I also have been heavily involved with Scouting America for the past several years, serving as Committee Chair for my son's Cub Scout Pack and currently as an adult leader for his Scout Troop.
What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?
1. I will advocate for all of the residents of Gardner by engaging them in conversation, communicating openly and directly, and taking their needs and concerns to the City Council.
2. I am committed to moving things forward and not staying stuck in the “vision” phase of Destination Downtown, a development plan revitalizing the downtown portion of Main Street.
3. Affordability remains a key concern for Gardner residents. As our city experiences rapid growth, it is essential that development is both strategic and sustainable—anticipating future needs in infrastructure, housing, and business. By managing City funds responsibly, I will help ensure that housing and taxes remain as affordable as possible.
What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?
Policy and Regulatory Expertise: With a background in the legal arena and regulatory filings, I understand the importance of transparency, compliance, and thoughtful governance.
Community Engagement: I am a skilled listener and communicator, and will regularly engage with residents, local organizations, and labor groups to ensure every voice is heard.
Commitment to Affordability and Growth: I am practical and logical. I will use those traits to support smart, sustainable development that balances infrastructure, housing, and business needs—while keeping taxes and housing costs manageable.
Collaborative Problem-Solving: I believe in working across differences to find practical solutions that benefit our entire community.
What makes this office an important part of the local government?
City Council Members are the heart of local government. They make decisions that shape our daily lives—from how tax dollars are spent to how neighborhoods grow. As your representative, I will:
• Create local law and policies that reflect community values.
• Oversee the city budget to ensure responsible use of public funds.
• Advocate for residents, making sure your voice is heard.
• Plan for the future of Gardner, guiding growth, infrastructure, and development, with an eye toward keeping Gardner affordable and inclusive.
• Build partnerships across departments and with local organizations.
This role is especially important as Gardner grows. Thoughtful leadership on the Council helps keep our city affordable, safe, and thriving.
Biographical Information
Ballot City
Gardner
Campaign Web Site
http://www.dawnkirtleyforgardnercitycouncil.info
Campaign Phone
7854189005
Campaign Address
736 E 167th Ter Gardner, KS
Mailing Address
736 E. 167th Ter.
Gardner, KS 66030
Gardner, KS 66030
Personal Biography
I have lived in this area of Kansas my entire life, growing up in the small town of Pomona. My husband and I lived in the Lenexa/Olathe area until we started a family. We settled on Gardner to raise our kids, and have been here for almost 12 years. We have two children, Krosby and Kolbie, and a hearing assistance dog named Lulu. In my free time, I enjoy live music, comedy shows, watching Chiefs and Royals games, and all things true crime.
Education
After graduating high school I attended Emporia State University for two years, then transferred to Ottawa University where I received a Bachelors in Accounting. I later completed a Masters in Finance and Accounting Management from Keller Graduate School.
Community/Public Service
I have served on our elementary schools PTO as treasurer for four years, and also volunteer as treasurer for Gardner KS Pride, a local non-profit.
What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?
I think the expansion of both Gardner Rd and 175th interstate interchanges are important projects for the safety and growth of Gardner. The housing developments that are currently under way will also play a key role. I also believe the Destination Downtown project would provide Gardner a much needed 'facelift', and will boost consumer traffic for small business owners in the area.
What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?
I have been an accountant for over 20 years, working in a variety of business sectors including manufacturing, HVAC, commercial development and health care. My experience with project costing, budgeting and financial statements provides me with a unique perspective to bring to the city council.
I am also heavily involved within the Gardner community, acting as both a volunteer and an advocate. This has allowed me to work alongside a diverse group of citizens, building consensus, and reaching shared goals. Volunteering has given me a deep connection with this community and its citizens.
What makes this office an important part of the local government?
City council members are on the level of government closest to the citizens they serve. City council staff make important decisions that directly affect citizens' every day lives, including public safety, roads and housing. They decide on how the city's funds are allocated. City council members have the responsibility to represent their constituents, providing accountability and transparency.
Biographical Information
What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What makes this office an important part of the local government?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
What do you believe are the three critical projects or initiatives that will move your city/district forward?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What skills, expertise, experience, or competencies qualify you for this position?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What makes this office an important part of the local government?
Candidate has not yet responded.