Earlier this summer, the Post asked our readers what issues you wanted to hear candidates running for Olathe 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 Olathe 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:
At-Large
Jeff Creighton
I graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Business degree. My move to Olathe came in 1984 when I accepted the position of Business Manager for the Harlan Parker Insurance Agency. I served in that role full-time for 36 years, then part-time for four years before fully retiring at the end of last year.
As Business Manager, my areas of responsibility included: 1) sales and service of commercial and business insurance, and 2) handling accounting, payroll, budgeting, and revenue projections. Beyond my work experience, I have served as a church treasurer and on the board of trustees of a small college which includes involvement in the budget processes of those organizations. My experience provides an understanding of finance, which will serve me well as a member of the city council with regards to fiscal policy.
For over 25 years, I have served in volunteer roles with the City of Olathe, including more than twelve years of experience on the planning commission, a nine-year member of the Citizens Police Advisory Council, followed by six years on the Olathe Police Foundation. I gained experience and understanding of such matters as the infrastructure requirements of the city, the impact of zoning and development and the needs of our first responders.
Rob Olson
Did not provide the Post with a response.
Ward 4
Kevin Deneault
I operate a managed technology support business based in Olathe helping local businesses with managed IT services and custom software. Something I’ve been doing for nearly 20 years. Before that, I worked for a logistics company, also in Olathe, in their IT department. Prior to that I attended K State and left after considering whether to incur debt or develop on-the-job experience in my field.
I’ve been in customer service my whole life – from service industries to retail and sales, with most of my experience in technology. I’m no stranger when it comes to fixing things and helping people – something people have known me for my entire life. I lived with city government being a part of life growing up, having had a father who worked for the city of Salina, KS for 16 years. He and my mother taught me empathy and how city government works for the people.
Marge Vogt (incumbent)
I have proudly called Olathe home for more than 30 years. After more than two decades as a military family in the U.S. Army, my husband, Tom, and I chose Olathe to put down roots and raise our family. I currently serve as City Council Member for Ward 4 and as Mayor Pro Tem, providing steady leadership, thoughtful decision-making, and a community-first approach to every challenge.
As a nurse practitioner, I bring a health-centered perspective to city governance. I understand how housing, transportation, and public safety directly impact residents’ well-being, and I apply this insight to guide policies that strengthen Olathe’s quality of life. I am committed to building partnerships, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that Olathe remains a safe, vibrant, and thriving community for all who call it home.
During my tenure, the Council has made great strides in improving Olathe’s quality of life. This progress does not occur by chance—it takes vision, collaboration, and action. With the upcoming retirement of our city manager of 27 years, maintaining experience and continuity on the Council will be essential to sustaining momentum and building on the progress already achieved. I believe deeply in the boundless potential of Olathe and look forward to being part of the city’s next chapter.
