The General Municipal Election will be held Tuesday, April 8, 2025.

Candidates of contested races were asked to submit information for voters. Information is presented in the same order as it will appear on the ballot and is printed as submitted. Candidates of those races were asked to send in reasons why they should be selected to fill those roles (we reserved the right to edit these due to available space).

CITY OF FAIRFAX

The City of Fairfax has an opening for mayor and two aldermen at-large openings. Tabitha Wintz has filed for mayor and Debra Wyatt and Stephanie Stevens have filed for the aldermen positions.

Fairfax voters will also be asked to vote on two issues:

• Shall there be a 30¢ increase in tax levy on $100 valuation for general municipal purposes for four years in the city of Fairfax, Missouri? This is a continuation of the present tax levy.

• Shall the city of Fairfax, Missouri, impose a sales tax of 1% for the purpose of street repair, including, but not limited to the operation, maintenance and equipment? This is a continuation of the present sales tax.

FAIRFAX R-3 SCHOOL DISTRICT

Voters in the Fairfax R-3 School District will also be asked to vote on the following issue:

• Shall the Board of Education of the Fairfax R-III School District, Missouri, be authorized to make permanent the current temporary operating tax levy of $0.7500 per $100 of assessed valuation without an estimated increase in the levy for the purpose of maintaining district facilities and paying the increased costs associated with educational programs, utilities, and other operational needs of the district? (If this proposition is approved, the current adjusted operating tax levy of the district of $4.7848 per $100 of assessed valuation is to continue unchanged and the existing temporary levy of $0.7500 per one $100 of assessed valuation will become permanent.)

Ky White, Crystal Woodring, and Stephanie Stevens filed for the two openings on the Fairfax R-3 School Board.

Questions for the Fairfax R-3 School Board candidates were submitted by the Fairfax CTA.

 

Ky White

I am a proud Atchison County native; born at the Fairfax hospital on June 5th, 1992, and raised in Tarkio where I graduated in 2011. After high school I moved to Maryville for a brief period of time, where I met my wife, Alicia White. We lived in many different places, but nothing compares to the small town, Fairfax. We were blessed with 2 beautiful daughters: Charlie and Cammie. Both our daughters are enrolled at Fairfax R-3. Alicia is currently employed at the school as a Paraprofessional. I am employed by a local farmer Michael Oswald, where I’ve been employed for the last 2 years. I feel I am involved in the county, but would like to be more involved in the school setting.

Since moving to Fairfax, I’ve been an active member of the Fairfax Volunteer Fire Department and have recently been voted Vice President. In 2024 I joined the MU Extension Council. I still serve on both councils to this day.

 I would strive to be an effective school board member. Some of you may know that there are a few issues in the school district that need addressed. One issue being our teacher turnover rate is at an all-time high. I would like to take the time to deeply investigate this issue. If elected I will personally sit down with each teacher and get some insight. With this insight I can fully understand what is going on within the school.

 We need to make the teachers not only feel appreciated but also feel secure. The same goes for all employees of the school, including support staff. I have some ideas that I believe will help with retaining teachers. I feel if a teacher is having an issue with something I want them to feel they can come to me or any other board member, and we will take it to a meeting and address the issue at hand. There are many different ways to handle situations and not escalate them. Ignoring a problem won’t make the problem go away, it will simply make matters worse. Our teachers work hard every day and I feel the need support and recognition for all their hard work.

 The school board does a fair job at communicating with the community but there is always room for improvement. I believe that sometimes the community may not really know the complete intentions of the school board.

There are few pressing challenges that could be addressed, as I already named 1; the high turnover of teachers. Another challenge is the administration. I’ve heard from several teachers and staff members that emails are not being replied to and possibly not even read. As a person big on communication that is simply unacceptable. If elected I will absolutely address this issue. Communication between staff and administration is vital to be sure everyone is on the same page.

Another pressing challenge is that of students within the school that require additional support. All children learn differently, and at different paces. I feel we need to have people that can sit in with these students during their everyday studies, especially when taking tests. Our children that require additional support are just as important as any other child, and deserve the care they need to get the best education possible. To resolve this situation, I would sit down with the board and come up with doable incentives for future paras.

 

Crystal Woodring

I am a Lifelong Fairfax Resident as well as a Class of 2004 Fairfax Graduate. I have always had a passion for my hometown and our community is unmatched. I choose to remain in Fairfax and raise my family here. It is my goal to see Fairfax thrive including education and Fairfax Traditions.

• What experience do you have in education, leadership, or public service?

I have been the executive director of the Northwest Missouri Living Center for 17 years, serving the develop-mentally disabled while leading an amazing team while navigating government funding challenges and policy.  I have become the trainer for Positive behavior support, abuse and neglect as well as certified CPR instructor. I am on the Board of Directors for Starling, an organization that advocates at the legislative level for IDD individuals. I spend lots of time at the State Capital building fighting for funding and advocating for legislative priorities I’m passionate about.

I have always strived to be an active member in our community serving on the Fairfax Improvement Foundation, Leadership Northwest Board, representing Atchison County Development Corporation in Jefferson City for the last 7 years, Athletic Booster Club, Music Booster Club, I have had the privilege to serve one Term as a School Board member where I was elected as the Vice President currently and want to continue my community involvement with our local school district.

• How would you describe an effective school board member?

Patient, consistent and receptive. You have to have firm belief in policy and the ability to follow and voice your opinions while adapting and receiving the public’s input.

• What are your thoughts about transparency and communication between the board and the community?

It is vital that the community is informed, they are the backbone of our town.

• What do you see as the most pressing challenges facing our school district and how will you address them?

Government changes/funding will be a large challenge facing our school district. Retention and Morale as well

• Teacher turnover is at an all-time high. What strategies do you propose to help recruit and retain quality teachers in our district?

Building an eternal trust will be vital, creating a district where voices can be heard and opinions shared and appreciated is my Goal.

 

Stephanie Stevens

Hello, my name is Stephanie Stevens, and I am a 2002 graduate of Fairfax R-3 High School and a member of Fairfax Alumni. I was born and raised in Fairfax, MO and my husband Justin and I have an 8-yr. old son Nash Stevens who is in the 2nd grade. I have decided to run for school board because I believe in our school and want to see it continue for many more years to come.

• What experience do you have in education, leadership, or public service?

I have worked at Fairfax R-3 in years past as a Para-Professional in the High School and Preschool. I have also worked in Customer Service for 13 years, so I am accustomed to interacting with the public.

• How would you describe an effective school board member?

I would describe an effective school board member as someone who is involved in our school and community.

• What are your thoughts about transparency and communication between the board and the community?

I believe there should be full transparency and communication between the school board and the community.

• What do you see as the most pressing challenges facing our school district and how will you address them?

Some of the challenges facing our school today are the upkeep and maintenance of the school building and maintaining our teacher staff.

• Teacher turnover is at an all-time high. What strategies do you propose to help recruit and retain quality teachers in our district?

To ensure that our teachers will stay and want to come to Fairfax, we need to make sure the teacher morale is a priority and there is communication with the administration.

CITY OF ROCK PORT

Openings with the City of Rock Port include mayor, North Ward Alderman, and South Ward Alderman. Richard “JR” Chaney has filed for mayor and Kimberly Brake filed for North Ward Alderman. Jody VanSickle and Christopher Roup filed for the South Ward Alderman position.

 

Jody VanSickle

Mr. Van Sickle did not submit a statement.

 

Christopher Roup

My name is Christopher Roup. I am seeking election as South Ward Alderman for the City of Rock Port. Born and raised in Rock Port, I returned to my hometown after completing my education at UMKC School of Pharmacy and began working at Stoner Drug. As a citizen of Rock Port, I take pride in our community. I also have questions, concerns, and some frustrations at times. I imagine a majority of Rock Port shares similiar feelings. I understand that each person prioritizes our concerns and frustrations differently. It is up to the elected officials to listen to concerns, address frustrations, and make informed decisions that benefit our city based on the will of the people. Although I don’t have the magic prescription for this particular situation, I am commited to ensuring Rock Port remains a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family for generations to come. Upon election, I look forward to collaborating with fellow community leaders to strengthen our infrastructure, support our local businesses, maintain our city’s beauty, and keep our city safe. I am dedicated to provide a listening ear, a sounding voice, and common sense. Go Big Blue!

ROCK PORT R-II SCHOOL DISTRICT

Afton Schomburg, Shannon Muntz, and Theresa Crawford filed for the two openings on the Rock Port R-II School Board.

 

Afton Schomburg

I believe my nine years of experience serving on the school board make me a highly qualified candidate for the opening. This experience has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our school system.

As someone born and raised in Rock Port, I have a strong personal connection to the community and a vested interest in the success of our students and schools. I attended Rock Port schools and received a great education, which has deepened my passion for ensuring our school district continues to thrive. Over the years, I have consistently supported both academic and extracurricular activities, recognizing the importance of fostering well-rounded students. I make it a priority to attend extracurricular events and support our students, knowing how essential it is for them to feel encouraged by their community.

Earlier in my service, I served on the board without having children in the district, which allowed me to approach challenges from an objective, community-wide perspective. Now, as a parent with a child attending the school, I have gained a unique, personal insight into the direct impact of our policies. This experience has only strengthened my commitment, and my dedication to our school system remains unwavering regardless of my personal circumstances.

My time on the school board has taught me how to collaborate and communicate effectively with fellow board members, educators, parents, and community members to make informed decisions that benefit all students. I feel I have analyzed issues carefully, considered all options, and made decisions based on evidence and what’s best for the students and the school system. I bring a perspective that balances tradition with the need for innovation, ensuring that our schools remain strong and adaptable to future needs.

I believe the Rock Port School District is thriving and is stronger than it has been in some time. Volunteering and serving this enriched community is a passion I have carried since growing up in Rock Port. With a proven track record of dedication, service, and commitment to our community, I am the best candidate to continue representing Rock Port and advocating for the success of our school system. I’m committed to making sure every student has the resources they need to succeed, and I’m passionate about making decisions that support both students and teachers. I love this town and I love this school.

Go Blue Jays!

 

Shannon Muntz

A little about me – I am married to Tim Muntz, who was born and raised in Rock Port. Together, we have a deep appreciation for the values and traditions that make our community special. I am also a mother to Tarver, a 2024 graduate of Rock Port who is now a biochemistry major at the University of Missouri. His goal is to attend medical school and return to Rock Port as a rural doctor, a testament to the strong foundation that Rock Port Schools and the community provides.

The role of a school board is crucial in shaping the future of our students and community. School board members make decisions that impact curriculum, school policies, budgeting, and overall student success. A strong board works to ensure that our schools provide a high-quality education while being fiscally responsible and responsive to the needs of students, teachers, and parents. I believe it’s essential to have board members who are dedicated to listening, problem-solving, and making choices that put our children’s best interests first.

One of the key reasons I feel I am the right candidate for this role is my ability to offer an outsider’s perspective – someone who does not currently have children in the school but still deeply values the education and success of every student. With a clear and objective viewpoint, I can assess challenges and opportunities in a way that prioritizes what’s best for the district as a whole.

I firmly believe in doing everything we can to prepare our children for a successful future, whether that means ensuring they have the tools they need in the classroom or listening to our teachers about what resources will help them best serve their students. Our educators are at the front lines of learning, and I am committed to hearing their needs and working alongside them to improve our schools.

This election is about the future of our children, our schools, and our community. I am ready to work hard, listen, and advocate for the best interests of our students and educators.

 

Theresa Crawford

Upon learning of an upcoming opening on the Rock Port Board of Education I reflected on this possibility. I am at a time in my life where I still have an active student at RPHS and I have the time to dedicate to such a position. Once filed, I have attended nearly every meeting of the Board of Education to get up to speed on the current issues our board is facing and to make a smoother transition if elected.

Attending board meetings have made me aware of our school’s Vision and Mission statements to guide the district and they are stated aloud at the beginning of each meeting. In my career as a nurse practitioner I feel I align with the school’s Vision Statement: to be a source of inspiration and knowledge. Both in the clinic and the hospital I help inform staff and patients alike on their ailments and treatments. The Mission Statement is as follows: Through leadership, dedication, innovation, and community partnership, we will provide opportunities for all students to maximize their potential, and becoming caring, moral, productive and self-reliant citizens. I am very dedicated to RPHS, my alma mater, and have three great children who display great citizenship and are very productive members of society.

As a nurse and nurse practitioner for over 25 years, the primary focus when making decisions has always come down to what is best for my patient. As a member of the board of education my focus and primary goal will be to do what is best for our students. While I realize that the role of any board member in any organization is not that of the day to day running of an entity, I intend to listen to community concerns and collaborate with staff to take issues to administration. I will also use this input to make responsible and ethical choices and policies. Another source for decision making that has always served me well, is to go to the literature in search of data. As healthcare providers we call it evidence-based practice, in education I look forward to learning credible sources and providing alternatives based on what works well for other schools. Those who know me know that I am transparent, perhaps to a fault. I do not make decisions lightly and have a strong sense of ethics and morals to help guide me.

When I went to college, I felt RPHS prepared me well for the fundamentals needed to see me successfully through. Both my sons agree that they too were well prepared at Rock Port as they went on to their own post-secondary educational routes. Our school consistently scores well academically and wins awards further highlighting those successes. It is my desire to see our school continue strong academic standards while continuing to change with the times. Following technological advances and finding innovative learning modalities will keep our students on the cutting edge while keeping our legacy of scholarly success moving forward.

CITY OF TARKIO

The City of Tarkio has one opening for North Ward Alderman and Scott Walker has filed for that position. Jeffrey Olson filed for the South Ward Alderman opening.

Tarkio voters will also be asked to vote on the following issue:

• Shall the City of Tarkio, Missouri, impose a sales tax of 1/2 of 1% for the purpose of improving public safety?

CITY OF WESTBORO

Shawn Manchester was the only candidate to file for the two-year term as mayor. There are two openings for Alderman At-Large. Mark Manchester is the only candidate who filed.

VILLAGE OF WATSON

Tammy Gibson, Tom Robison, and Tasha Gronniger filed for the three openings for the Board of Trustees.

Watson voters will also be asked to vote on the following issue:

• Shall the Village of Watson of Atchison County continue to levy an additional tax rate of 30¢ on the $100 valuation, for a period of four years in the Village of Watson, Missouri? This is a continuation of the present tax levy.

ATCHISON-HOLT AMBULANCE DISTRICT

Chris Roup filed for the position of a board member in Sub-District 2.

Voters will also be asked to vote on the following issue:

• Shall the board of directors of the Atchison-Holt Ambulance District be authorized to levy an additional 20¢ on the $100 assessed valuation to provide funds for the support of the district?

LANGDON SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT

Richard Oswald was the only candidate who filed for the board member position with the Langdon Special Road District.

Voters will also be asked to vote on the following issue:

• Shall the Langdon Special Road District of Atchison County levy a tax rate of 35¢ on the $100 valuation, for a period of four years? This is a continuation of the existing tax.

TARKIO SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT

There is one opening for a board member with the Tarkio Special Road District. Sam “Trey” Graves III and Craig “Bubba” Vance have filed for the opening.

 

Trey Graves

My names is Trey Graves and I’m running for Tarkio Special Road District. I am a lifelong resident of Tarkio and farmed here for many of those years. I know the importance of these roads surrounding town for both commuting to work and school, as well as providing access to our many farmers for grain hauling and field access. My goal is to serve the district as a whole and to provide an unbiased, forward thinking approach to road maintenance, tree removal, and snow removal.

Craig “Bubba” Vance

Mr. Vance did not submit a statement.

WATSON SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT

Trey Garst was the only candidate who filed for the board member position with the Watson Special Road District.

Voters will also be asked to vote on the following issue:

• Shall the Watson Special Road District of Atchison County levy a tax rate of 35¢ on the $100 valuation, for a period of four years? This is a continuation of the existing tax.

NO ELECTION

If the number of candidates who have filed for a particular office is equal to the number of positions in that office to be filled by the election, no election shall be held for such office, and the candidates shall assume the responsibilities of their offices at the same time and in the same manner as if they had been elected. Those include the following:

• Phelps City Special Road District Board Member – Dick Caradori

• Public Water Supply District Sub District #5 Board Member – Andy Spiegel

• Public Water Supply District Sub District #4 Board Member – Brock Nuckolls

• Tarkio R-I School District Board Member – Jamie Barnett and Brooke Vette