City of Mountain View - East Ward Alderman (two-year term)

There is one seat available. Candidates include Judi Colter, who will appear on the ballot, or write-in contender Brigg Pierson. 

 

Judi Colter, appearing on the ballot

 

1. What is your background, and how can your background help you govern the City of Mountain View?

Born and raised in Mountain View. I care deeply about our community. My 17-year experience as a bank manager and track record as a previous councilwoman will help me in my governing role on the council.

 

2. What are duties of an alderman/woman?

The duties of an alderwoman are clearly defined by the Missouri Municipal League.  The key aspect of the position is to participate in the council meetings.  In order to participate effectively, a council member must observe the community, speak with citizens and read all the materials brought to the attention of the council.  An often-overlooked responsibility of the council members is to encourage participation in the discussion of all issues.  Open communication between the council and the citizens is the foundation of transparent governance.  Another important function of each council person is relating to city employees.  A deep understanding of the duties and responsibilities of each of the city employees is necessary for an effective term on the council.  

 

3. What do you think is the number one problem the City of Mountain View is facing?

The number one problem facing the city of Mountain View is the lack of transparency by the current administration and officials in day-to-day and yearly duties.  Concerning as well is the financial situation of the city.  Until the City produces the budget as requested by numerous individuals and officials, no one knows what the financial situation is.  

 

4. How do you see yourself functioning as a member of this particular administration?

Regardless of who holds any position within the council, I will perform my duties as outlined by the state.  I will work openly and honestly with a team building attitude to address the concerns of my constituents.  

 

5. Do you think the City of Mountain View needs a city administrator? Why or why not?

I believe the City of Mountain View needs an administrator.  Even though I was involved in removing the last city administrator, I understand the necessity of an administrator that is working full time to see to the duties outlined by the city ordinance.  The chain of command outlined by the City of Mountain View Personnel Policy Manual clearly states that the City Administrator is directly responsible for supervising the personnel and day-to-day operations of the Senior Center, Library, Parks, Airport, Shop, Fire Department, Golf Course and all public works departments.

 

6. What do you think about the city’s spending/budget in 2023? What could they improve?

With regards to the city’s spending/ budget for 2023, until the financials for 2023 are produced as I have requested, I don’t know the answer.  

 

 

 

Brigg Pierson, write-in candidate

 

1. What is your background, and how can your background help you govern the City of Mountain View?

My background is in public safety. I have been a licensed Law Enforcement Officer since 2012.  I have also been in the fire service since approximately 2017.  As such I have a great sense of selfless service.  I always look out for the best interest of my community. If elected, I would bring my values to continue to help our community.

 

2. What are duties of an alderman/woman?

The duties of an alderman are to help control the flow of city funds, vote on ordinances and policies that are brought before the city council, and most of all look out for the welfare and good of the community as a whole.

 

3. What do you think is the number one problem the City of Mountain View is facing?

The number one problem I have seen as of late is the drama caused by the distrust, lack of transparency, and willingness to cooperate together of current and former members of the city officials.

 

4. How do you see yourself functioning as a member of this particular administration?

I see myself functioning as a levelheaded alderman who is more concerned with the welfare of the city as a whole rather than my personal gain or ego.

 

5. Do you think the City of Mountain View needs a city administrator? Why or why not?

At this time, I do not see a need for a city administrator. As a small town, I don't feel like we need to pay another salary for someone to perform the same tasks that are performed by other city officials.

 

6. What do you think about the city's spending/budget in 2023? What could they improve?

I have read the budget report, but as it is an 18-month report, I would prefer to omit this question because the spending budget is not as it would be in a normal 12-month report.