I come from a small business family. My parents didn't get to spend money they didn't have, and neither should the city. As your councilmember, I've approached every budget vote the same way I'd look at my own family's finances: what do we actually need, what can wait, and what's the return on this dollar for the average Midway resident?

THE REALITY

Midway has a diverse tax base that is ever-changing. Our budget is also ever-changing. Once Midway Station is fully developed, that will bring in new tax revenue. My job on council is making sure we're not making promises we can't pay for, and not raising taxes to cover spending we don’t need to do. And if we can save money to pay for larger projects, we should plan for them.

Our entire budget for 2026-2027 is less than $3 million. The changeover from Kentucky American Water to Frankfort Plant Board is expected to free up over $100,000 for our rainy day fund. We lowered property tax rates in 2025 and kept them the same in 2026. We’re in a strong position for our future, but we need to keep it that way.

WHAT I'VE DONE / WHAT I'LL KEEP DOING

• Lowered the property tax rate in 2025

• Pushed for the Midway Cemetery road pavement project that required saving

• Passed two budgets with rainy day funds

• I will continue to ensure our budget remains balanced and we are in a position to pay for projects that benefit the people of Midway

Being fiscally responsible doesn't mean saying no to everything. It means being honest about tradeoffs — the same way I am about housing. We can invest in Midway's roads, parks, and growth without writing checks the city can't cash.