Mayor Candidate Letter
Dear Residents of Cottleville, Friends and Endorsing Partners:
Why am I motivated to run for Mayor of Cottleville, and why do I believe I'm the best choice?
I am a candidate because our community deserves innovative ideas and meaningful change. Cottleville is currently experiencing challenges due to rapid growth and ineffective leadership. The issues include a lack of vision, a reactive approach, and inadequate public communication. The current administration has had its opportunity, and it is now time for an individual who is genuinely committed in creating opportunities and improving conditions for all residents, not just a select few. With your help, I am ready to take the next step. I respectfully ask for your support in bringing about a positive transformation.
My objective is to drive change, transition myself out, and later help from behind the scenes.
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1) I have a clear vision for Cottleville (currently lacking) and that will enable us to attain next level success and recognition.
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2) I will promote a Decency Quotient culture to end cronyism and political vendettas for good!
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3) I advocate for inclusive leadership, community engagement, open communication, and full transparency, even when decisions are challenging. No decisions will be made without public awareness and involvement. During my brief time as Alderman, I was the sole Cottleville government voice connecting with residents.
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4) I will reform the current administration's approach to handling city project bids. Additionally, will strictly enforce actions against home builders who break codes and promises (many issues lately).
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5) I aim to empower the Board of Aldermen (and discourage the part-time service mindset) to ensure effective representation and eliminate practices of conformity.
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6) My goal is to transform Cottleville into a proactive city rather than one that reacts to events. I will also work with every HOA and business owners to keep communities clean, and thriving.
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7) I propose a six-month moratorium on new applications while reviewing all current construction proposals. We must ensure we are always headed in the right direction.
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8) A Parks and Recreation committee will be established, beginning with annual winter festivities aimed at fostering bonding, awareness, and responsible community growth.
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9) Promote voter registration and encourage active participation in municipal elections. This is YOUR government, and all our citizens deserve a voice!
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10) Will recommend a refreshed PD action program to enhance Police-community relations. A safe Cottleville is a prosperous Cottleville.
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11) A host space will promote local arts and support artists. In recognition of our community roots, I will ensure that the small-town feel is preserved, regardless of any new ventures.
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12) Building strong relationships with neighboring cities, especially St. Peters, will be a priority.
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13) Reform and adherence to the recommendations of our Commissions (Historic, Board of Adjustment, Planning and Zoning), ensuring proper governance and preventing misuse of power.
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14) Will propose a sister city relationship initiative with a European town sharing a similar cultural and historical identity, for the purpose of promoting cultural and commercial ties.
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15) Review the litigation list for the past five years to identify alternative methods for case resolution. Document lessons learned and strategies to prevent recurrence.
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16) Study the four established Community Improvement Districts in Cottleville and examine their loan repayment plans to the city, which involves a collection of over half a million dollars. Current re-payment arrangement is not adequate.
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17) Efforts will be made to achieve debt-free status for the city and initiate the upgrade process to classify Cottleville as a Third-Class city. And establish an Historic Preservation chapter.
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18) Enhancing relationships with key institutions, including St. Joseph School, Cottleville Fire Protection District, St. Charles Community College, and the Francis Howell School District.
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19) Get involved with Dardenne Creek Blueway project and allow our RESIDENTS, not businesses or county officials, decide on Cottleville’s access point location, including parking and facilities.
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20) Create an annual program to honor local female veterans, noting that Cottleville has over thirty of these heroes!
Together, we can make Cottleville a strong and forward-thinking community. Any support, whether small or substantial, is greatly appreciated. Please feel free to contact me to discuss any topic in more detail. Cottleville is the jewel of St. Charles County, so let's claim our status.
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Sincerely,
Stephen Thompson