Earlier this summer, the Post asked our readers what issues you wanted to hear candidates running for Gardner City Council to address leading up to the Nov. 4 election.
Based on that feedback, we developed a five-item questionnaire centering the issues most important to Gardner residents.
Each day this week, we’re publishing the candidates’ responses to one question.
Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
Background: Readers want to know something of your background. Briefly explain your education and employment history and how those experiences qualify you for this job.
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on this issue:
Mark Baldwin (incumbent)
I’m a husband of over 20 years, a father, and have been a resident of Gardner since 2003. I graduated from college with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology and another Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology. I was the valedictorian of both classes and the first to complete both degrees at the same time. I have worked at Garmin as a software engineer since shortly after graduation. I use logic and solve problems literally every day. Between my time in Gardner, which has allowed me to see the city triple in size and know several trials and tribulations, and my professional skills I’m able to take data presented and determine the best course of action for the whole city. A decision will rarely be liked by all 25,000 residents, so I try to make decisions that are logical, beneficial to the majority, and continue our responsible growth. I was on the EUB ( now UAC ) for 7 years, with the final 3 as chairman. I am in my second term for city council and have been the VP for a year and the president for the past 4. I have a demonstrated ability to learn and process information, time residing in Gardner to know it well, time learning about our utilities, and serving on the city council making tough decisions. I look forward to continuing to serve the residents of Gardner and ask for your vote on November 4th.
Kelly Johnson
I have an Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies from JCCC and a Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Justice Studies from Ft. Hays State.
By day, I’m a regulatory filings specialist (a.k.a. paralegal) in the legal department of an investment management firm. However, over the years, I’ve worked in both law firm and corporate environments, supporting attorneys in the areas of education, employment, insurance subrogation, contracts, and healthcare law.
My experience has provided me with a great understanding of fiduciary duty—an understanding which absolutely is necessary to serve on the City Council. I am committed to acting in a manner that is prudent and responsible for Gardner and its residents. I promise I will always put the interests of Gardner’s residents above my own. I will follow the law and ensure city actions comply with state statutes, city charters, ordinances, and grant conditions.
Dawn Kirtley
I am a lifelong Kansan, growing up about 40 miles from Gardner in Pomona. My husband and I picked Gardner specifically when we moved here over ten years ago because of the small town feel of Gardner, as well as its affordability. We still live in the house we bought when we moved here, and now have two children in the school district.
Having children in Gardner made me want to get involved in the community. I volunteer as Treasurer for my children’s elementary school PTO, and also volunteer as a board member for a local nonprofit, Gardner KS Pride. Both of these organizations have given me a unique perspective on the Gardner community. My work with both have also inspired me to get even more involved.
Prior to moving to Gardner, I graduated from Ottawa University with a Bachelor’s in Accounting. I later went on to obtain my Master’s in Accounting and Financial Management through Keller Graduate School. I have worked as an accountant in a variety of different business sectors over the last twenty plus years including HVAC, manufacturing, commercial project development and healthcare.
Experience in a variety of industries gives me a broad perspective on how local policies affect businesses, workers and families. I have been able to work with a diversity of complex budgets, identify waste, and ensure financial accountability. My work experience, along with my involvement in the community, will enable me to bring a new, fresh perspective to the city council if elected.
Steve Shute (incumbent)
Did not provide the Post with a response.
John Snyder
I am currently retired from both the Military and Federal Government.
I developed my skill sets over nearly 40 years of working in the most demanding organizations, which made me a strong leader with demonstrated skills in management, organization, operational efficiency; budgeting, and security management. I have demonstrated success in resolving complex problems and to the ability to negotiate positive results for key stakeholders.
In 1985, I enlisted into the United States Army Reserve, then in 1988 transferred to active duty, primarily in the Military Police field. I served in many different jobs and leadership roles, which gave me practical experience in managing people, money, and time. After more than 20 years of service with the Army, I retired in 2007, at the rank of First Sergeant.
Upon retirement from the Army, I attended the Johnson County Regional Police Academy, while working as a Deputy Sheriff for the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. I later served as the Deputy Jail Administrator and Tactical Team Commander for the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office.
In 2009, I returned to the Department of the Army as a federal employee and Director of Institutional Services at the Military Correctional Complex, Fort Leavenworth, KS where I provided oversight to Institutional Services for both, the United States Disciplinary Barracks and the Midwest Joint Regional Correctional Facility.
In 2018, I was selected to serve as the Deputy Commandant of the United States Disciplinary Barracks overseeing all USDB daily operations until my retirement in 2023. My responsibilities as the Deputy Commandant included the responsibility for the daily operations of the Department of War’s only maximum-security prison housing up to 460 inmates with an average daily population of 400 inmates serving sentences that ranged from 10 years to Death; Oversaw a staff of 90 Department of the Army Civilians, and 175 Soldiers who supported USDB daily operations. I was responsible for cusdoy and security; logistics; medical, dental, and mental health care; inmate administrative records; and religious, vocational, educational, recreational and crime specific rehabilitative programs, and budget within the USDB. I developed and implemented the USDB short and long-range goals and objectives; reviewed and submitted responses to internal and external actions and taskings which originated from a variety of sources to include various levels of Department of Army (DA) leadership, Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), Congress, and other Federal agencies outside of Department of War.
I have been married for over 37 years to my wife Rachel. I have two daughters and four grandchildren.
I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Administration from Upper Iowa University, and a Master of Arts Degree in Business and Organizational Security Management from Webster University.
