For a Better Wyoming
Vote by November 5th, 2024,
or by Absentee Ballot
Wyoming is a special place. Rich in history and diversity, our city has a lot to offer. I believe we are just getting started.
Hi, my name is Robert Kilgo.
I am running for Wyoming City Council At-Large because I recognize the great potential of our community and understand the challenges we currently face. Wyoming has a long history of growth and determination, from its earliest days as a center of agriculture and industry to becoming the busy city it is today. Our community's story has been characterized by hard work, dedication, and a strong sense of who we are.In the present day, the high cost of living, lack of community identity, and aging city infrastructure affects us all. Given that, it's important that the City of Wyoming responds by being responsible with the tax dollars it takes in to address these issues. My desire to run for city council comes from my commitment to serve the community and build on the legacy of our city's founders by ensuring a successful future for all residents.If elected, I pledge to represent every Wyoming resident with excellence, no matter who they are or what their background is. I will thoroughly consider every vote I am asked to take, without rubber-stamping anything. I will prioritize the safety and security of our community above all else. And I will do all of this while consulting the community every step of the way, ensuring that our decisions reflect our collective vision for a better Wyoming.Thank you for visiting my website, and I hope I can earn your vote on November 5th, 2024.
Meet The Candidate
Robert Kilgo is a proud long-time resident of Wyoming. He works full-time at Grace Christian University, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree.Rob married his wife Natalie in July of 2021. She is a librarian with the Kent District Library system who herself is a lifelong resident of West Michigan.
Rob currently serves as a commissioner on the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Commission and the Officer's Compensation Commission. Over the years, he has been a mentor to at-risk youth in Wyoming, emphasizing that change starts on the individual level by empowering them to make positive choices and become agents of change in their own lives and communities.As a proud resident of Wyoming, Rob has deep roots in the community and an understanding of its strengths and unique character. Having lived in Wyoming for so long, he realizes what sets our city apart from others and appreciates its diverse community and rich cultural heritage.Rob's commitment to addressing city issues stems from his lifelong desire to serve others and his belief in the importance of grassroots activism. He firmly embraces the principle that "All politics is local," recognizing that the decisions made at the city level have a direct impact on the day-to-day lives of residents.Through his engagement in community initiatives and willingness to listen to the concerns and desires of fellow residents, Rob seeks to leverage his local knowledge and leadership experience to address pressing issues, promote transparency and accountability in government, and foster a sense of unity among community members. His vision for Wyoming is one of progress, and he is committed to working tirelessly to turn that vision into reality.Want to get in touch with the candidate? Reach out here!
The Issues
Robert's top priorities are the result of thoughtful consideration and conversations with community members regarding what matters to them most. Here are the top issues he would address if elected:
Focus on Economic Development and Job Creation
With time and effort, Wyoming has the potential to be a major economic hub in West Michigan. Our proximity to Grand Rapids positions us well for more growth and development. However, realizing this potential requires proactive work to ensure that our city is not only a great place to do business, but also a distinguished community for residents and workers alike.Rob is dedicated to creating an environment conducive to economic investment and prosperity. This will mean working with residents, businesses, and community stakeholders to identify areas where we can grow. By leveraging our city's strengths and resources, we can attract new businesses and create more job opportunities.Specifically, Rob would look at targeted industry growth (such as in healthcare and technology) that has high growth potential and would align well with the city's current landscape. He would also work to improve city infrastructure, ensuring that we are attractive to new businesses and investors.
Invest in City Restoration and Beautification
Everyone wants to take pride in their community and its presentation. The reality is that how our city looks does matter a great deal. Rob believes that a more beautiful Wyoming will lead to increased property values, economic growth, community pride, and crime reduction. Here are concrete ways we can achieve this:
Enhancing Green Spaces
Investing in parks, public gardens, flower planting, and tree planting will create more inviting public areas.Public Art Projects
Promoting murals, sculptures, and other forms of public art to beautify our streets and celebrate our community's creativity and culture.Improving Infrastructure
Ensuring that roads, sidewalks, and public facilities are well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing.Community Clean-up Initiatives
Organizing neighborhood clean-up events would keep our streets and public spaces litter-free.
Truly the possibilities are endless, and Rob aims to explore all of our options.
Address the Housing Shortage in Wyoming
The housing shortage crisis facing West Michigan (particularly in Wyoming) is a pressing issue that affects the stability of our community. Affordable housing is a necessity for individuals and families across income levels, and we must take decisive action to address it. Whether they are renters or aspiring homeowners, the lack of affordable housing options creates a financial strain for our residents.While addressing the housing crisis requires comprehensive solutions in the private sector and the state and federal levels of government, there are steps that our city can take to support initiatives that increase access to affordable housing in our community.Rob believes that affordable housing is an economic necessity. It is essential for attracting (and maintaining) a talented workforce, supporting local businesses, and fostering a healthy community.If elected, Rob will work towards a future where everyone in Wyoming has access to affordable housing and the opportunity to succeed.
Expand access to city services and
focus on constituent affairs
Through his conversations with Wyoming residents, Rob frequently encounters a common sentiment: Many individuals feel disconnected from the community and uncertain about the role of city government in their lives. Whether due to a lack of information, communication barriers, or other factors, residents express a sense of disengagement from their community.This disconnect highlights a larger issue facing Wyoming: the need for improved community engagement and civic participation. As our city continues to change over time, it is essential that all residents feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to the process of local government.Wyoming is at an inflection point, where we have both challenges and opportunities for meaningful change. Rob believes that an engaged community is essential for a thriving democracy, and Rob will prioritize plans that promote civic education and public participation. This includes holding regular town hall meetings, hosting block parties, and leveraging social media to inform community members of current events in the city.If elected, Robert's top goal is to make the lives of our residents better than before, and he believes constant constituent engagement is vital to achieving this.
Keep our Natural Areas Clean, Beautiful, and Modern
Wyoming is home to 21 city parks covering over 700 acres. These parks are invaluable to our city and they contribute to the health, well-being, and quality of life of our residents. We are lucky to have so many wonderful parks in our city, and Rob is thankful to the parks and recreation staff for all that they do.Robert's vision for Wyoming includes well-maintained parks that serve as hubs of community life, offering opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and connection with the outdoors. He will work with stakeholders, community groups, and residents to develop strategies for improving park infrastructure and promoting sustainability.Rob is committed to safeguarding and enhancing our green spaces for the benefit of present and future generations. He believes that access to nature is a fundamental right and should be available to all residents, regardless of their background or ZIP code. If elected, He will prioritize initiatives aimed at protecting and expanding our green spaces, ensuring that they remain accessible and inviting to all members of our community.
Fully Research every vote taken
Frequently, politicians across all levels of government cast votes on motions or bills without thoroughly understanding the implications. At times, they may delegate the task to their staff and merely skim through the "highlights". Rob firmly opposes the notion of voting on matters he hasn't fully comprehended. "How can I effectively serve the residents of Wyoming if I haven't taken the time to understand the issue at hand?"If elected, Rob is committed to upholding the integrity of the democratic process by treating every vote with the seriousness it deserves. He pledges to conduct thorough research on all matters brought before the city council to ensure that he is well-informed and prepared to make decisions that reflect the best interests of our community.
Maintain Wyoming's streak of fiscal responsibility and balanced budgets
Wyoming has been fortunate to have city employees and elected officials who genuinely care about the budget. Every year, they take great pains to approve a budget that is cost-effective and keeps us financially solvent. This has allowed our city to provide essential services without placing an undue burden on taxpayers.If elected to city council, Rob pledges to continue this trend and take it a step further by exploring ways to keep costs down for Wyoming residents. His approach will include:Detailed Budget Analysis
Rob will work closely with city experts to evaluate every section of the budget, ensuring that we eliminate wasteful spending and prioritize essential services.Community Involvement
Rob believes in transparency and will actively seek input from residents on budget priorities through town hall meetings and surveys. Your voice matters, and he wants to ensure it is heard in the budgeting process.Innovative Solutions
Rob will explore new and innovative ways to save money, such as leveraging technology to improve efficiency in city operations and seeking grants or partnerships that can provide additional funding without increasing taxes.Long-term Planning
Keeping costs down is not just about the current budget cycle. Rob will support long-term financial planning to ensure that Wyoming remains financially healthy for years to come. This will include maintaining adequate emergency reserves, consistently paying toward our OPEB liabilities, and planning for inevitable infrastructure needs.
Well-funded public safety initiatives
and safe neighborhoods
Rob prioritizes the safety and well-being of Wyoming's residents more than anything else. Our city has invested wisely in public safety initiatives in recent years. If elected, these are Rob's public safety priorities:Decreasing Response Times
Rob will work to optimize response times for our public safety officers. Faster response times can save lives and enhance the overall safety of our community. In a medical emergency, for example, every second counts.Community Policing
Rob supports initiatives that build stronger relationships between our police officers and the communities they serve. By building trust, we can work together to prevent crime and address safety concerns proactively.Emergency Preparedness
If you're anything like Rob, you've probably heard the outdoor warning sirens more than you want to hear in recent months. However, they serve an important purpose. Ensuring our city is prepared for emergencies is critical. Rob advocates for comprehensive emergency response plans and will ensure they are updated regularly.Youth and Outreach Programs
Investing in our kids is investing in our future. Rob will support programs that engage young people in positive activities and provide mentorship opportunities. These programs will help young people learn important life skills and give them positive role models.
Contact Me
I value hearing from residents of Wyoming and invite conversations on the issues. Want to chat with me about:
- An issue you think needs to be addressed
- A policy you'd like me to support
- Getting to know meSend me a message and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Thank you for reaching out!-RK
Frequently Asked Questions
City Council is a frequently misunderstood position. Many residents are unsure of the council's role, power, or what the city council can do for them.On this page, I compile questions and answers that I receive when talking to Wyoming voters, and I hope they are helpful to you too.If you have any questions you do not see answered here, please, reach out! I will do my best to get you a satisfactory answer.
Q: What is the difference between an At-Large Councilmember and a Ward Councilmember in Wyoming?
A: The Wyoming City Council has two types of councilmembers: Ward members and At-Large Members. Ward members are elected by the ward they live in, and they represent the Ward that elected them. Wyoming has three wards. Each ward is made up of a similar number of voting precincts.At-large members are elected by the city as a whole, and represent the entire city.
Q: Are there any differences in power, stipend, or responsibility to voters depending on what type of council member you are?
A: No, there are no differences. The only difference is the amount of people you represent (roughly 1/3 of the city versus the whole city).Even still, any good council member will help a member of the community with any issue, regardless of the type of council member they are.
Q: How long does a full City Council term last in Wyoming?
A: Each city council term (Ward or At-Large) lasts four years.
Q: Do City Council candidates declare a political party?
A: No, this is a nonpartisan race (one of the only races like this) and candidates do not declare a party. The work that the council does should transcend partisan politics, focusing more on the day-to-day aspects of managing a municipality.
Q: Where are City Council candidates on the ballot?
A: Generally, city council races are found near the end of your ballot.
Q: What is the general summary of the City Council's role in Wyoming?
A: The short answer is that the Wyoming City Council adopts local ordinances (city laws), appoints residents to various boards and commissions, issues proclamations and tributes to deserving residents/businesses, and directs city staff in selecting priorities for the annual city budget.Think of the city council as similar to a board of directors for an organization. They oversee the city and appoint essential roles, such as the city manager, city clerk, and the city attorney. Since Wyoming is a council-manager form of government, the city manager carries out the day-to-day administrative duties of the city, not the mayor. It is the city council's responsibility to affirm or deny items presented by city employees.Many Wyoming residents believe that the city council has more power than they truly do. In order to be realistic, I have created my campaign around what I think is feasible to accomplish given the power the council wields.
Q: Why is the City of Wyoming named "Wyoming"?
A: Fun fact, the city is not named after the state of Wyoming. It was named for Wyoming County, New York, from which many of Wyoming's early settlers hailed from.
Donate
If you would like to pitch in towards our campaign For a Better Wyoming, you may:- Write a check
You can write a check to:
Robert Kilgo for Wyoming CouncilAnd send it to:
Robert Kilgo for Wyoming Council
948 Blackburn St. SW
Wyoming, MI 49509- Donate Online- Donate Cash
According to the state of Michigan's campaign finance laws, no cash contributions over $20 can be accepted. However, $20 can still go a long way! If you'd like to send a cash donation, please send it to the above name and address.
Thank you for supporting my campaign!