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VOTE411 Voter Guide

Great Bend City Council, Ward 1

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  • Candidate picture

    Deklyn Craven
    (Non)

  • Candidate picture

    Shelly Peacock
    (Non)

Biographical Information

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

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

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

Campaign Phone 6208685047
Personal Biography My name is Deklyn Craven, and I am running for Great Bend City Council Ward 1. I am a lifelong resident of Great Bend and serve as a volunteer in many areas within the community. I have worked at Riverbend Assisted Living as a CNA & CMA since March of 2024. I’m running for city council to prioritize tax payers and keep local businesses thriving, as I want to see Great Bend grow and improve.
Education Great Bend High School Diploma, CNA & CMA Certification
Community/Public Service Currently, I serve in a variety of community roles that reflect my commitment to our city. I’m the vice president of both the Santa Fe Car Club and the Golden Belt Model Train and Slot Car Museum. I also serve as secretary and treasurer for the Shifters of CK and sit on the board of the Great Bend Zoological Society. In addition, I’m a member of numerous local organizations, including: Vintage Wheels Car Club, Barton County Historical Society, Great Bend Beautification Committee, Great Bend Economic Development Committee, Golden Belt Humane Society, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Barton County Fair Association, Great Bend Walk to End Alzheimers, SRCA Drag Strip, Dodge City Classic Car Club, Kiwanis International, and Sunflower Diversified Services
I would like to see the US 281 and Frey Street park updated and improved. The kids on the furthest east side of Ward 1 don’t have a park within a walkable or bikeable distance, and I believe the community improves as kids’ needs are met. Residential streets within my ward are needing repairs. The city has done a wonderful job here lately of improving our major roads, and I know the constituents would be grateful to see more done within their own neighborhoods. I would also like to bring forward initiatives that encourage more small businesses to come to and stay in Great Bend. We have a beautiful downtown, and I would love to provide future entrepreneurs with the resources to grow their potential business within our space and boost tourism.
I am passionate about servant leadership. As listed previously, I am involved in a wide variety of local committees, clubs, and associations. The involvement I am had in these groups has only grown my enthusiasm for supporting the people in the community and has introduced me to diverse groups with a wide range of opinions. I have learned how to work as a team with these individuals to come towards a common goal. Along with that, my participation with government businesses, such as the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Community and Visitors Bureau, has allowed me to experience the behind the scenes of what it means to support local businesses and their owners. I understand the importance of sustaining and growing our community.
The Great Bend City Council is responsible for ensuring that the people in Great Bend are not only heard, but also listened to. The taxpayers deserve to have a say about where their money is going, and the city council members have a duty to see that the constituents are having their needs met and lives improved through city growth.
Campaign Phone 620-617-4238
Personal Biography Shelly is a lifelong resident of Great Bend with a deep passion for the community and its businesses. With strong roots in the city, she is dedicated to supporting local growth, strengthening neighborhoods, and ensuring Great Bend continues to thrive for future generations.
Education Shelly graduated Great Bend High School in 1997, Barton Community College in 1999, and also Kansas State University in 2011 with a Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration.
Community/Public Service Great Bend Noon Lions Club, Chamber Ambassador, Chamber Board, Co.Starters Volunteer
Strengthening Local Business and Economic Growth. Improving Infrastructure and Neighborhood Safety. Enhancing Community Engagement and Quality of Life.
I was a business owner here in Great Bend for ten years and have been on the Chamber board for many years. I also hold a business degree from K-State and have over 25 years of experience in Business-to-Business sales and service.
The City Council is one of the most important parts of local government because it serves as the direct voice of the community. Council members represent the needs and concerns of residents, set local policies, and make key decisions about how tax dollars are spent. In many ways, the City Council is the link between citizens and government—ensuring that everyday voices are heard and reflected in the future of the community