Candidate profiles: Greene County Presiding Commissioner

 
Presiding Commissioner of the Greene County Commission
 
Bob Dixon
Office currently held: State Senator
Political party: Republican
Family: My wife Amanda and I have been married 26 years and we both have lived in Greene County since childhood. We have three daughters, Grace, Rose, and Olivia. and an English Springer-Spaniel named Charlie.
Education: Master of Education, Human Services, Drury University (2009) B.S., Business Administration, Drury, magna cum laude (1997) Graduate, Christian Schools of Springfield, (1987)
Why do you want to hold this office?
Results matter, and so do principles, I believe Truth, Trust and Transparency are three fundamental elements of self-governance. I was asked by community leaders to stand for election in Greene County to help restore the trust, and confidence citizens have in their local government. I was asked, in part, because of my years of bringing people together and getting things done.
There are many challenges and opportunities facing Greene County in the months and years ahead. Respect for each other is a fundamental attribute that must be cultivated for us to succeed and to provide the best services to Greene County citizens. For the first time in a long time, Greene County is well-positioned financially to deal with the challenges ahead. Because results matter, it is important to have a person who will serve the people with integrity, and who has a record of getting things done.
Why do you feel you are the best candidate for the job?
Results matter, and I have an award-winning record of delivering for the people of Greene County. I have spoken often on the importance of principled public service.
For going on two decades, I have maintained an approach of openness to the ideas of others regardless of political preference, party, or prior opinion. I hope voters agree this is the kind of service and leadership we need in Greene County now.
Additionally, I have made a public promise to the citizens, the employees, and the elected public servants of Greene County to truly adhere to the letter and the spirit of the Law, to respect the citizens as originators, beneficiaries and guardians of their own County Government. As a public servant, it is essential to operate with a true sense of respect for each independent office holder. I made this pledge because I value the confidence of our citizens and because I believe a solid foundation of trust is necessary to consistently serve the public well.
What previous public offices have you held?
For sixteen years, I have served the citizens of Greene County, first as State Representative, and later as State Senator. In the Senate, I was appointed Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, the first non-attorney to hold that post since the 1830’s. Working cooperatively with my colleagues, I spearheaded the first complete revision of the Missouri Criminal Code in 35 years and the process for the first redrawing of Missouri’s Judicial Circuits since 1959. These are just two of the many results that matter, because these overhauls delivered relief to local government and law enforcement.
During my service in the House, my peers elected me twice as Majority Caucus Chairman. I was appointed Caucus Chaplain and Chair of the Transportation Committee.
What are the most important issues we’re facing right now, and how do you plan to handle them?
There are a number of issues that will continue to challenge our county, some are the core elements of county government- like budgeting, facing regulatory issues, and personnel matters. At the same time, there are other issues which are relevant because of the changes and growth in our communities. Issues like the opioid crisis, domestic violence, and a growing and diverse population have an impact on the courts and law enforcement, and even budget, job development issues, and transportation issues. These issues have an impact on our communities and families. There is a need for someone to step into this leadership role for the county who will set a respectful tone and bring people together to face these challenges.
What else would you like for the voters to know about you?
My wife Amanda and I have been married 26 years and we both have lived in Greene County since childhood. We have three daughters, Grace, Rose, and Olivia. Greene County is our home, and we care about our communities. I would respectfully ask for your consideration, your trust, and your vote on Tuesday, November 6th.
Sara Lampe
Political party: Democrat
Family: I am a life-long Missourian. My grandchildren are 6th generation Ozarkers. I have three sons and eight grandchildren. They are the 3rd and 4th generations living at our home place in the center of Springfield.
Education: Bachelor’s of Science in elementary education, SMSU; Master’s of Science in Educational Administration, Drury University.
Why do you want to hold this office?
Greene County is ready for a change and I am the change candidate. It is the right time for a new voice in Greene County leadership – the kind of voice that kept Central High School open and the voice that delivered the crucial votes for the MSU name change. Greene County deserves experienced leadership that is accountable, common sense, and transparent.
Why do you feel you are the best candidate for the job?
I am the best candidate for the job because I have decades of proven leadership managing public employees and public budgets with full transparency while leading people toward common goals. People know me as their child’s teacher, principal, professor, colleague, State Representative in the House of Representatives as the ranking member on the budget committee, and a strong voice for them.
 
What are the most important issues we’re facing right now, and how do you plan to handle them?
Returning Greene County to being the envy of the state instead of an embarrassment will be a top priority for me.  I’ll be a trustworthy steward of our resources and a strong voice for the entire county. Oversight of the recently approved tax is vital for county leadership as we begin construction of a new jail. We need to focus on protecting the health of all citizens and keeping a high standard for water quality. It will also be important to rebuild trust with county employees who work hard every day to keep us safe, staff our libraries, and pave our roads. The culture of the county will be a top priority for me by returning Greene County leadership to collaboration and consensus building, engaging the entire county and area municipalities in debate, discussions and seeking ways to cooperate.
What else would you like for the voters to know about you?
My experience matches the needs for the job of Presiding Commissioner. I am energetic, innovative, and forward-looking. I value the creativity and dedication of people who work with me. I’m secure enough to hear critiques, and to learn from the expertise others bring to the table. I welcome ideas and new ways we can move forward through discussion and civil discourse.
It would be an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Greene County as the Presiding Commissioner.