IN THE NEWS
Solon rolls to victory in 55th
Former City Council member gets 61 percent of vote
By Jeff Martin - jeff.martin@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Nov 03, 2010 @ 01:57 AM
Blue Springs, MO —
Republican Sheila Solon won her race Tuesday night in the 55th Missouri House District.
Solon beat Democrat Clay Rodgers and Libertarian Jeffrey Hoorfar.
According to unofficial election results, Solon got 7,710 (61.47 percent) of the votes, while Rodgers got 4,242 (33.82 percent) and Hoorfar got 567 (4.52 percent) of the votes in the 22 precincts.
The 55th Missouri House District includes portions of Blue Springs south of Interstate 70 and most of Grain Valley and Oak Grove as well as portions of unincorporated Jackson County.
Solon thanked her supporters and promised to hit the ground running once she reaches Jefferson City.
She dismissed seeing her win as a sign of the times across the country after Republicans gained control of the United States House of Representatives.
“All politics are local,” she said. “I spoke to a lot of people, knocked on a lot of doors and worked hard.”
Solon attributed her victory to her service in the past.
“I think a lot of people appreciated that I served on Blue Springs City Council and the Planning Commission,” she said.
Once she reaches Jefferson City, Solon said she will learn the process as quickly as she can and start working.
“They’ll be a steep learning curve, but I’ll work hard.”
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Our Opinion: Our picks for state legislature
By The Examiner's Editorial Board
The Examiner
Posted Oct 30, 2010 @ 12:52 AM
Independence, MO —
Eastern Jackson County is seeing a major turnover of its representatives in Jefferson City. Thanks to term limits, only two local members of the General Assembly – state Sen. Victor Callahan, D-Independence, and state Rep. Tom McDonald, D-Independence – will start 2011 with any experience in the legislature.
That’s a daunting idea, considering projections of a budget train wreck next year and intense competition from around the state for scarce state resources for schools, public safety and a hundred other needs. It’s important that Eastern Jackson County’s delegation hit the ground running.
In the 55th District, Republican Sheila Solon is a good choice over Democrat Clay Rodgers. Solon, a former City Council member in Blue Springs, works hard and isn’t afraid to ask questions that make other officials squirm. That’s a great characteristic – to a point. The learning curve in Jefferson City is steep, and it requires more listening and quiet lobbying than confrontation
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Election Preview
District 55
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Sheila Solon
Age: 51
Occupation: Account Coordinator, Parlux Fragrances
Party Affiliation: Republican
Previous Civic Service: Blue Springs City Council - 3 years, Blue Springs Planning Commission - 9 years, PTA President - 2 years.
Why are you seeking this position?
After volunteering on the Blue Springs Planning Commission and serving on the City Council, I saw the need for true citizen representation. I have tried to be the voice and conscience of my neighbors and at times have taken harsh criticism because of it. The 55th District deserves a representative who will be able to stand strong on its behalf. I know that I can continue to be effective at the state level.
What in your opinion are the most important issues facing the cities of Lee's Summit, Blue Springs and the rest of your district?
The economy, jobs and education. We must grow the economy. The most pressing issues we currently face stem from the economic downturn; a depressed economy adversely effects and exacerbates these problems. Jefferson City needs to be in step with the belt tightening that families have been forced to do and to follow suit. I strongly believe that we must carefully scrutinize spending and become more creative with our problem solving other than raising taxes.
If elected, what are your plans to address those issues?
When the economy strengthens and jobs do return, we have to make sure that they are filled by Missouri workers and not illegal aliens. I will fight for stricter immigration laws. In this next session, I anticipate a push at the state level for open enrollment in our school systems. I am against this and I will strive to make sure that this does not become law.
What will you do to help Lee's Summit and Blue Springs attract and retain business?
Small businesses have been credited with creating 85 percent of all new jobs. I have been endorsed by the National Business Association which represents more than 9,000 small business owners. A state level priority should be reducing red tape and burdensome regulations on business. I will take up Rep. Pratt’s fight to make Missouri Innovation Park a reality.
What is your position on tax credits and other economic development tools such as tax increment financing, community improvement districts and transportation development districts?
I have had experience with these while I was on the city council. As a councilman, I have voted both for and against these. Tax incentives and credits are tools which should judicially and prudently be used only in truly blighted areas. I have a harder time with CID’s and TDD’s which collect extra sale stax from shoppers to the benefit of a private development. They should be used sparingly and with a sunset clause to stop blight. We need to review tax incentives with the yearly budget to ensure that all tax breaks are warranted.
Lee's Summit and Blue Springs are home to some of the best schools in the state, yet the recent cuts in state funding are requiring them to have serious discussions regarding the elimination of programs. What will you do to ensure education remains a top priority at that state level.
A strong education system is the cornerstone to the stability of a community. The state legislature needs to fully fund the foundation formula and moderate their involvement so that the schools aren’t in the position of guessing what is going to happen next. I am against open enrollment in our school systems as I believe that it will have a devastating effect on the local control of school districts.
Ethics were a hot topic in the Missouri General Assmbly this year. What will you do to ensure your constituents remain your top priority as an elected official and retain transparency in your office?
My constituents are my only priority. I will continue to be responsive to phone calls and e-mails, as I did while serving as a city councilman. Last year’s ethics legislation was a good start but it should go farther. I will champion true ethic reform that will set limits on political contributions.
Elected officials should not be able to work as lobbyists at the same time they are serving in office. Representation in Jefferson City should be a level playing field and I have no problem fighting for that.
Passing a balanced state budget is alwas a major issue in the Missouri General Assembly - especially in these economic times. What will you do to ensure the state is fiscally responsible?
Review and re-evaluate the $500 million that is annually given to corporations in the form of tax incentives. The state can no longer afford the explosive growth in tax credits when education, social services and other areas of state government have suffered deep cutbacks. We must live within our means as we can not tax and spend our way into prosperity.
Although fiscal responsibility is important, how will you address the needs of Missouri's vulnerable citizens. How will you decide which programs to fund, versus which programs to cut?
Efficiency and Results. We need to cut bureaucracy and needless overhead. State expenditures need to be reviewed to identify the programs that are working properly and revamp the programs that are not. This may mean combining redundant programs and streamlining those that are bloated with bureaucracy. We need to make sure that we are getting the biggest bang for the taxpayer’s buck.
What are your thoughts on Proposition C?
I agree with the 71 percent of Missourians who do not support a government takeover of healthcare. Improvements should be made to make health insurance more affordable but I believe that healthcare reform should come from encouraging private markets that provide greater consumer choice
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Three vie to represent the 55th District
Rodgers, Solon promise to be accessible to constituents if elected
By Jeff Martin - jeff.martin@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Oct 28, 2010 @ 12:03 AM
Blue Springs, MO —
Three candidates are vying for the 55th Missouri House District, which includes portions of Blue Springs south of Interstate 70 and most of Grain Valley and Oak Grove as well as portions of unincorporated Jackson County.
Candidates include Sheila Solon, Republican, Clay Rodgers, Democrat, and Jeffrey Hoorfar, Libertarian.
Hoorfar did not reply to interview and survey requests.
For Rodgers, this is his first foray into the political world. Currently serving as a business representative for the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Rodgers said he wanted to run so he could be a voice for both the blue and white collar workers in the area.
“There are a lot of things that need done,” Rodgers said this week. “Mostly it’s jobs and school issues. That seems to be what’s on everyone’s mind.”
By working as a business representative, Rodgers believes he has a unique trait that will be a benefit to the district.
“Really the position is about being a liaison between people and small businesses, businesses with 10 employees or less,” he said. “I just want to be a voice for the people. They need one.”
But at the same time, Rodgers wants voters to know that he will listen to everyone – whatever party affiliation.
“I’m mad at Washington, D.C., too,” he said. “Issues like illegal immigration – that’s not right, and schools going unfunded. Those issues have got to change.”
Rodgers is endorsed by the Missouri branch of the National Education Association, the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District Union 3133, Fire Fighters Local 42, the Greater Kansas City Building Trades Council and the AFLCIO. In addition to job creation and retention and education funding, Rodgers also wants to help balance the state budget. He wants to award tax incentive financing to areas in genuine blight condition.
“Sometimes the only people who benefit are the developers,” he said. “The state as a whole needs to get some benefit, too.”
He also said he would work to ensure that the proposed Missouri Innovation Park is realized.
“That will bring a lot of jobs to the area,” he said.
Solon describes herself as a woman, wife, mother and a Republican.
“I believe in less government intrusion in our lives, less taxes, less wasteful spending and more individual and governmental accountability,” Solon said.
She calls her experience in Blue Springs city politics a “proven track record,” one that has led her into strong leadership skills.
“I’m a strong representative voice for our citizens and willing to take a stand for conservative values and fiscal responsibilities,” she said.
If elected, Solon said she would focus on economic issues, replacing and creating jobs, holding the line on taxes and spending and getting people back to work.
“Government needs to re-evaluate what it can do to help businesses prosper,” she said.
She’s also been critical of the proposal to allow for open enrollment, which would allow students to cross district lines and enter other districts.
“It would create a huge burden on taxpayers,” she said.
Solon has been endorsed by state Sen. Matt Bartle, state Rep. Bryan Pratt, Rep. Will Kraus, Rep. Gary Dusenberg, Mayor Carson Ross, Councilman Ron Fowler, Former Councilman Lyle Shaver, Missouri Right to Life, Missouri School Administrators, Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals, Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals, Missouri Council of Career and Technical Administrators, Missouri Chamber PAC, National Federation of Independent Businesses, AQ Rating from the NRA, Kansas City Star, Kansas City Chamber of Commerce BizPAC.
Solon believes her accessibility is one personal attribute that will help her serve constituents.
“I am very accessible,” she said. “When people reach out to me, I help them. I figure that if my phone rings, and someone has a problem, the very least I can do is try to assist them.
“During my tenure on the Planning Commission and Blue Springs City Council, I developed a very good relationship with many county residents. “I helped them understand and deal with land rights and zoning issues even though, technically, I was not their representative.
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By Jeff Martin - jeff.martin@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Oct 27, 2010 @ 11:58 PM
Sheila Solon, the Republican candidate for the 55th Missouri House District, has several years of public service: as Mayor Pro-Tem for Blue Springs, three years on the City Council, nine years on the Planning Commission and chairman of many advisory and city commissions.
A member of the Blue Springs South High School PTA and other school-related organizations, Solon and her family have been active in the city since they moved there over 19 years ago.
She’s married to Charlie and they have two children, Lindsey and Spencer.
1 What are the three most important issues facing the 55th District, and how do you plan to address them? |
The economy; replacing and creating jobs; holding the line on taxes and spending. We have to get people back to work. Government needs to re-evaluate what it can do to help businesses prosper. Jefferson City needs to set the example of belt-tightening and cut spending, just as citizens have. |
2 You’ve been critical in the past regarding tax incentives and how they’re used, especially at the local level. How do you plan to address this issue in Jefferson City if you are elected? |
Tax incentives should judiciously and sparingly be used in truly blighted areas where development would not occur if not for this inducement. I approve some and voted against many. I fiercely opposed and voted against the $32 million public bailout of a private developer. We should not socialize the risk and privatize the profit. |
3 Are there any specific Blue Springs issues you plan to make Jefferson City aware of and what would you do specifically to address them? |
Parents are alarmed by the proposed Open Enrollment for our schools. I will fight against this and vocalize the devastating impact it would have on our schools and the heavy burden it would place on taxpayers. I will work towards making the Missouri Innovation Park a reality by being a supportive advocate. |
4 What three areas should get first priority for added spending when the economy recovers and state, county and local revenues improve? |
Before a wish list of expenditures is made, the state needs to become solvent and financially solid. This economic downturn should teach us to be frugal and to measure future spending based on true need. Even in good times we must continue to live within our means |
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Candidates talk tax cuts, budget, business at forum
Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2010
Tax cuts, small businesses and the state budget were the three main themes at Friday’s Blue Springs candidate forum, co-sponsored by the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce and the Blue Springs Journal.
A crowd of approximately 50 people turned out to listen to candidates vying for seats in the Missouri House of Representatives Districts 54 and 56 and Missouri Senate District 8. Missouri House District 55 candidate Sheila Solon was in attendance, though her opponents, Libertarian Jeffery Hoorfar and Democrat Clay Rodgers, did not attend the forum.
“I’m a small business owner myself,” said Republican Will Kraus, running for District 8. “and I think the main things we should do is cut taxes and regulations and start listening to small business owners.”
Kraus’ opponent, Libertarian Kevin Parr, agreed with the tax cuts, “We need across the board tax cuts,” Parr said. “But we also need accountability. There are some people (on this forum) that have served for years. Why are we not holding them accountable for the problems we have now?”
Democrat John Bullard, running for the District 54 seat, said the budget needs to be looked at before any more cuts go through.
“We need to work together and develop our priorities,” Bullard said.
Bullard’s opponent, Blue Springs city councilwoman Republican Jeanie Lauer, said the House should focus on regulations and mandates.
“There are many regulations that are not helping the small business owner,” Lauer told the crowd. “We need business to come into our area. We can’t just say ‘decrease taxes’ when you have vacant buildings. It’s our job to be the voice of people.”
When asked what they would cut or not cut from the budget, Republican Mike Cierpiot, running in District 56, said there needs to be cuts across the board.
“With the exception of families with special needs children, I think there needs to be cuts in every department in Missouri,” Cierpiot said. “We need to find ways to reduce our spending.”
Cierpiot’s opponent, Democrat Dave Coffman took a different approach to the question.
“What do you want to give up?” he rhetorically asked the crowd. “Highway repair? Prison guards? Every place we cut ends up hurting someone else. I don’t want to cut education again because I believe that’s the most important thing we need to fund. I don’t have an answer to that question.”
District 55 candidate Republican Sheila Solon said she thinks it is important to find money before making cuts.
“There are many government agencies and programs we can combine,” Solon said. “We need to also look at tax credits every year and make sure they’re being used correctly.”
A major topic of concern for the Blue Springs School District is the possibility of open enrollment, which would allow students from any district to attend Blue Springs schools. Many of the candidates at the forum said they oppose open enrollment.
“I have a record on opposing open enrollment every time it comes up for a vote,” Kraus said. “As for charter schools, I think they’re fine but only in failing school districts. Blue Springs is not one of the those districts.”
Parr said open enrollment and charter schools need to be, “put back on the table for discussions. I do agree that we need to fully fund the education formula. Cutting it isn’t right. But we’re in tough financial times right now, we need to look at all our options.”
“I don’t want kids from different cities being put in our schools, mostly because of how that will affect their families,” Bullard said. “How are parents going to be involved in their child’s school if it’s not a neighborhood school?”
Lauer also opposed open enrollment saying schools districts do not need government telling them what to do on a local level – her comments received a round of applause from school district officials in the audience.
Open enrollment makes an additional tax burden on the people in our community,” Lauer added. “Who is going to pay for the busses and the larger classrooms? The people of Blue Springs, not the citizens of the communities these kids are coming from.”
“When I first heard about open enrollment I thought it was one of the craziest things I’d ever heard,” Solon said. “I don’t support it.”
Cierpiot said he’d like to defer a judgment on open enrollment to local school boards because, “they’re closer to the people than we are. They’ll know if open enrollment will work for their district or not.”
Coffman also said he was against open enrollment.
As a final question, each candidate told the audience who their biggest donors for the General Election were. Both Solon and Lauer received $2,000 from Missouri House of Representatives Republican Steven Tilley; Cierpiot loaned himself $10,000; Coffman received $2,500 from the Jackson County Democratic Party; Kraus’ largest donation for the General Election was $2,500 from a business in St. Louis; Parr loaned himself $250; and Bullard said he’d received $10,000 from the Safe Families Coalition
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Local candidates go another round
State budget, education issues are topics at Chamber of Commerce forum
Blue Springs, MO — Blue Springs Examiner 10/16/10
Round two.
Candidates in three Missouri House of Representative races and one Senate race had plenty to say early Friday morning before the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce.
Will Kraus, the Republican running in Senate District 8 and Kevin Parr, the Libertarian in the Senate race; Democrat John Bullard and Republican Jeanie Lauer in House District 54; Republican Sheila Solon in the 55th; and Democrat Dave Coffman and Republican Mike Cierpiot in the 56th District addressed many issues, much as they did Thursday morning before the Blue Springs Business Association.
Only Clay Rodgers, a Democrat in the 55th District race, did not attend.
This time, the candidates touched on topics such as what they would do to help balance the state budget and whether they agreed with open school enrollment, charter schools and school vouchers.
Parr, a Libertarian from Grain Valley, not surprisingly, separated himself from the other candidates.
“They’re talking about reducing taxes and regulations, but are you going to hold them accountable for not (doing those things)?” he said.
Many of the candidates have entered politics for the first time, but a few have experience.
With a career in law enforcement for more than 20 years, Bullard, an Independence police sergeant, has expressed many ideas on how to save and restore programs. He said he wants to look at the state budget before making steep cuts; wants to restore proper funding for education, and re-examine the tax credit program.
Lauer said she wants less regulation for small business and wants to implement advisory groups for all areas of concern.
Cierpiot said he, too, wants less regulation and red tape for small business – an idea, he said, that is similar to Solon’s view, who wants less regulation and red tape; wants to exclude small businesses from having to pay certain taxes and limit government intrusion in matters like health care.
Coffman, a former educator, said he wants to cut taxes to help small businesses and, most importantly, work together.
Kraus said he wants to cut taxes, cut regulation and listen to small business owners.
Parr said he wants to restore accountability to the office and put pressure on the tax code as a way to discover where waste is going.
To cut the state budget, which is facing an estimate $700 million deficit, Cierpiot said he would want to look at cutting taxes across the board.
“But I want to protect families with disabilities,” he said.
Coffman asked the audience what they want politicians to cut.
“Highway patrolmen? Highway repair? Prison guards?” he asked. “If I’m elected, I’ll be visiting you and asking you what you want cut.”
Kraus, a current representative for District 48, was the only candidate in attendance Friday morning with direct experience in last year’s budget, one that he did not agree with, in part because the state used one-time stimulus funds to help achieve balance.
He said he would focus on tax credit reform as one avenue to help the budget.
“I’m for tax credits, but we need to make sure we do it right,” he said.
He said he would also focus on welfare reform, the largest budget category in the state, and closing the largest prison facility in Missouri.
Parr said the first priority is to examine the U.S. Constitution and decide from there which direction is best.
“We should ask what government should not do and what government should do,” he said.
Bullard agreed with tax credit reform, and said he doesn’t agree with the practice of taking $650 million in tax credits, setting it aside and then putting it back into the system.
“Tax credits should take tax cuts,” he said.
Lauer said she would take a look at the state’s largest employer – the government.
“I want to look at that first,” she said, adding that she wants to look for any program misuse.
Solon wants to combine government agencies, examine state programs and ensure that tax credits are being used properly.
Kraus, Bullard, Solon, Coffman oppose open enrollment where students could cross district lines and enter another district.
“Open enrollement causes a tremendous burden on districts,” Solon said, adding that classrooms need to be kept at 25 students per room, a situation compromised if more students are transfered in.
Regarding charter schools, Kraus said he supports them in failing districts, while Bullard said he wants more discussion about the issue. Bullard also does not support vouchers.
“How do the parents get involved?” he asked. “Neighborhood kids need to go to neighborhood schools.”
Lauer said districts don’t need the government telling them what to do. She said she would consider charter schools in specific areas but no voucher system.
Of those three concepts – open enrollment, voucher and charter schools – Cierpiot said he wants to fully fund school districts and that something must be done to get children in failing school districts into successful ones.
Parr took a similar approach as Cierpiot, expressing his wish to see schools fully funded but wanting to discuss those concepts more.
The forum was sponsored by the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce and the Blue Springs Journal
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Election season
Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2010
John Beaudoin, Journal Publisher
If you are sick of the Ike Skelton vs. Vicki Hartzler ads, go ahead and raise your hand.
And if you have had enough junk in your mailbox, head into your garage, open the door and let it out. It’s OK to scream. Election season is here.
On the local level, the candidates are not nearly as aggravating – to me at least.
Well, OK, there is Democrat Clay Rodgers. He’s drawn the ire of my aggravation. Thankfully, I don’t live in his district, so, my annoyance is only surface deep.
Rodgers wants your vote for the District 55 state representative seat. But he cannot find the time to make a pair of political forums, one sponsored by the Blue Springs Business Association and the other, the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce.
Collectively, 80 or so voters were on hand. Not to mention the thousands of people that read about the forums in the form of coverage from local newspapers, like the Journal.
And, collectively, none of them got to hear what Rodgers or another candidate for that district, Jeffrey Hoorfar, had to say.
Now, I am certainly not suggesting that missing political forums will spell doom for these candidates. But it certainly doesn’t help.
In his defense, Rodgers said he had a work obligation that prevented him from being present to the Chamber forum.
Republican Sheila Solon, a former Blue Springs City Council member, already fought off challenger Mike Parker in the Aug. 3 primary. As a relative unknown, Parker put up quite a fight against the outspoken Solon, pulling in nearly 45 percent of the vote.
While Republicans tend to be the favorite in that district, an area formerly held by Bryan Pratt, that doesn’t mean Rodgers would not and could not put up a battle for that seat.
However, being absent from local, community-related political forums will not get it done.
Solon has vulnerabilities as a candidate for that district. I am sure Rodgers does too.
But there are also strengths to both candidates and voters in Blue Springs have only gotten to hear from one of them in a public setting.
In the primary, more than 4,000 Republicans cast a vote. A little over 1,300 Democrats punched a card for Rodgers, the lone donkey on the ballot.
While the constraints of a career are certainly understandable, if Rodgers truly wants to represent the Democrats of his district, running for that seat is going to need to be a full-time job all by itself.
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Area candidates face off in forum
State of economy is a hot topic for 2010 election
By Jeff Martin - jeff.martin@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Oct 15, 2010 @ 02:09 AM
Blue Springs, MO —
Candidates in three Missouri House of Representative races and one Senate race faced the public Thursday morning during the regular breakfast of the Blue Springs Business Association.
And most could agree on at least one thing – that the overall health of the economy will rebound after the general election, an indication of what some feel is a kind of stagnation in the hands of Democrats.
Those attending the forum were Will Kraus, Republican running in Senate District 8; Democrat John Bullard and Republican Jeanie Lauer in House District 54; Republican Sheila Solon in the 55th; and Democrat Dave Coffman and Republican Mike Cierpiot in the 56th. (Candidates Kevin Parr, a Libertarian in the Senate race, and Clay Rodgers, a Democrat in the 55th District race, did not attend.)
Bullard said he would focus on creating jobs, strengthening the local economy in order to keep children in the area, and making jobs more available. Citing his career experience with the Independence Police Department, Bullard said he would use that to “make friends and reach out and make connections.”
Lauer said she would focus on local job creation, the local economy and efforts to ease regulations on small businesses.
“Many small businesses feel they can’t grow because of regulations,” she said. “We need to keep government out of the way.”
One audience member questioned Lauer’s attitude toward regulations, stating that lack of regulation could in part be blamed for the current economy.
“I agree,” she said, “but I’m focusing more on small businesses.”
Solon said she would focus on job creation, tougher immigration laws and preventing open enrollment within school districts. She would also focus on reducing government influence, reduce taxes and pursue ethics reform, which includes caps on campaign donation amounts.
“My Democratic (competition) received $10,000 from unions that are out of state,” she said.
While she supports changes in health care, Solon said she does not approve of what she calls a “government takeover of the health-care industry.”
Coffman said he would focus on job creation and ensuring that vital programs and teacher layoffs within the five school districts in the 56th District are addressed.
“(Those things) affect every child,” he said.
Cierpiot said the Democrats in Washington D.C., are “driving us over a cliff.”
Cierpiot was the first to describe a kind of economic and political stagnation, one brought on by uncertainty.
“A friend of mind is holding off hiring two people because he’s uncertain and wants to wait until the election,” he said.
Kraus said he’s vying for the office because he was tired of the “money-controlled” influence that was prevalent when state Rep. Bryan Pratt ran against him in the primary.
“(Pratt) had $200,000 in the bank, and at first I decided to back off from running,” he said.
Kraus said he enjoys sitting with people and discussing issues one on one rather than at public forums. He said he wants to lower taxes and ease regulations.
“I’m not your typical politician,” he said.
Some audience members had questions for candidates, including what each would do specifically to change the economy.
Lauer said there is no “silver bullet” and that she and others have to look at the picture “as a whole” before making decisions.
Coffman said politicians on each side of the aisle have to work together to come up with solutions.
Solon said she would work to prevent proposals such as “cap and trade” environmental policy and focus on local economic development. One possibility is to exclude small businesses from having to pay certain taxes.
Cierpiot said the “environment needs to change,” which would then allow businesses to make money.
“It’s come down to the outcome of the (upcoming) election,” he said.
Bullard said some small steps have been made locally, including the proposed Missouri Innovation Park in Blue Springs and the business incubator in Independence.
“We need to learn to capitalize on existing programs,” he said. “And we need to make sure education is appropriately funded.”
Kraus said jobs are created when officials reduce regulations, reduce taxes and, most importantly, listen to people
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What fun we had at the Fall Fun Fest! Had a great time seeing everyone who stopped by and survived the storm on Saturday. I would like to express my appreciation to all of the supporters that participated in the parade and helped in our booth. I could not have done it without you.
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By A staff report - localnews@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Sep 01, 2010 @ 11:53 AM
Blue Springs, MO —
U.S. Rep. Sam Graves will host a reception honoring Republican candidate for the 55th District of the Missouri State House of Representatives, Sheila Solon, on Sept. 8.
The event is 3-4 p.m. at Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association National Headquarters, 1 OOIDA Drive in Grain Valley.
“I am look forward to meeting with my constituents,” Solon said in a press release. “I’m also very honored Congressman Graves is coming to town to support and endorse my candidacy.”
Solon is a former Blue Springs City Council Member and former member of the Blue Springs Planning Commission.
The event is free and open to the public.
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Missouri House of Representatives District 55 candidate Sheila Solon greats supporters at an election watch party at TJ's Over the Edge, 3100 SW Missouri 7, in Blue Springs. 8.3.2010 Adam Vogler
Missouri House of Representatives District 55 candidate Sheila Solon, right, and Norman Marvel go over poll results at an election watch party at TJ's Over the Edge, 3100 SW Missouri 7, in Blue Springs. 8.3.2010 Adam Vogler
 
By Jeff Martin - jeff.martin@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Aug 04, 2010 @ 01:27 AM
Eastern Jackson County, MO —
Blue Springs resident Sheila Solon won the Republican nomination for the Missouri House of Representatives District 55.
Solon snagged 2,391, or 55.25 percent, of the votes during Tuesday night’s primary. Her opponent, Michael Parker, got 1,940, or 44.75 percent, of the votes, according to unofficial election results.
Contacted Tuesday night, Solon first congratulated Parker for his well-run campaign and the effort he put in.
“He was a formidable opponent,” Solon said.
Parker could not be reached for comment. In the end, Solon said voters voted for her because of her past public service in Blue Springs as a Planning Commission member and City Council member.
“I think residents appreciated that public service in the past,” she said.
Solon will face Democrat Clay Rodgers and Libertarian Jeffrey Hoorfar, both of Blue Springs, in November
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Tuesday, Aug. 03, 2010
Solon takes next step toward Jefferson City
John Beaudoin, Journal Publisher
Sheila Solon isn’t going to take too much time to celebrate.
After Tuesday night’s Primary Election win over fellow Republican Mike Parker, Solon said there isn’t much time to commemorate the victory.
“Celebrate tonight and then back at work tomorrow,” Solon said from her victory party in Blue Springs.
A former Blue Springs City Council member, Solon fought off Parker and an early close ballot race to win the nod for the right to move on to the November General Election as the Republican nominee for the 55th State Representative District.
Solon won more than 55 percent of the vote, 2,390, to Parker’s 1,936 (44.75 percent).
The win puts Solon against Democrat Clay Rodgers who won an unopposed race in the primary Tuesday night.
Parker, 28, said he personally knocked on more than 3,000 doors during his campaign.
“I knew going into this race that I was an underdog. I am a relative unknown going against someone that was on the city council,” he said. “Losing 55-45, I am real pleased with the battle we put up and with those that helped out with my campaign.”
Solon said she felt both candidates put in a massive amount of work into the race.
“He worked really hard and I worked really hard,” Solon said. “I think people appreciated my work as a city councilman and how I stood up for the citizens.”
Parker said he will now back Solon in the General Election.
“We need to have representation in District 55 that shows our conservative values and displays them in Jefferson City in a manner that exudes strong leadership,” Parker said, adding the district needs someone with a positive attitude that can work in a collaborative manner.
“I hope that’s something Sheila can accomplish,” he said.
Solon said she had many topics on her agenda for her next race, including the economy, jobs and support of our public schools.
“We need to ensure a high quality of education for our children and we need to put people back to work,” she said
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By The Examiner's Editorial Board
The Examiner
Posted Jul 28, 2010 @ 11:14 PM
Independence, MO —
Decisions that voters make on Tuesday will shape our community for years to come. Nowhere is that more true than in deciding on representatives in Jefferson City, where legislators decide everything from school funding to economic development tools.
Eastern Jackson County is likely to have less pull at the Capitol after this year. Seven representatives and two senators represent the lion’s share of Independence and Blue Springs, and all of but two are out after 2010, thanks to term limits, (although two are running for the state Senate, so one might have a new role). Two who are termed out have been leaders in the House. This means it’s important to have new legislators who come up to speed quickly and work effectively, even as junior legislators, to advance the area’s interests.
Next Tuesday’s party primaries will go a long way toward deciding who takes office in January.
In the Democratic primary in the 51st District – Sugar Creek, north Independence – Ira Anders is a good choice. He’s been on the Independence Board of Education and has a good understanding of how state and local policies need to mesh. Nowhere is that more critical than on school issues.
In the Democratic primary in the 52nd District – southeast Independence, Lakewood, Unity Village – Robbie Makinen would do a good job. As Jackson County’s economic development director, he has revived a moribund program, and his skills at getting divergent players with divergent agendas to work together are well suited to Jefferson City. In the Republican primary in that district, Noel Torpey is a good choice and he deserves credit for his dogged pursuit of the seat for the last several elections.
In the Republican primary in the 55th District – south Blue Springs, most of Grain Valley and Oak Grove – former Blue Springs Council Member Sheila Solon and newcomer Mike Parker are waging a fierce campaign. We give the edge to Solon for her experience, her willingness to do the homework and her willingness to go against the grain, although Parker has raised good points, too. And we would caution that the skills that make an effective city leader can be very different than those that make an effective legislator. Solon will have more homework than ever, and there is no more important skill than listening to those on the other side of the argument.
No race seems more hotly contested than the Republican primary in the 8th Senate District, a sprawling area from the Cass County line to the Missouri River, covering Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, unincorporated parts of the county and even slices of Independence. We give the edge to state Rep. Bryan Pratt of Blue Springs, who has been a key leader in the House and has been as effective as any local legislator in advancing the area’s interests. Pratt’s record is not spotless – his claim about the “most … sweeping ethics reform bill in the universe” a couple of months ago was ludicrous – but he has been a steady voice for projects such as the proposed and highly promising Missouri Innovation Park in Blue Springs, a project that will need a strong voice in Jefferson City
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Showdown in the 55th District
By Sheila Solon
Special to The Examiner
Posted Jul 28, 2010 @ 11:32 PM
Last update Jul 28, 2010 @ 11:35 PM
Blue Springs, MO —
As a candidate for the Missouri 55th District, the number one question I am asked is “Why are you running for office?” This is a fair and rather important question to ask of all elected officials as the success of government relies on active involvement from all participants. Too often there is the suggestion that the public is apathetic and not fully invested, so I am pleased when it is asked and happy to answer it.
I have found people are interested in civic life, but they are busy. Busy working trying to make ends meet; busy raising their children and caring for elderly parents; busy volunteering at their churches, in our schools and in the community.
While families are juggling these obligations, they expect their elected officials to be busy fulfilling their responsibilities. We are elected to office to be the citizen’s voice and advocate.
The public wants to believe our system works and the trust in which they have placed in it is not misplaced. They want their representative to have knowledge about local issues and to care and fight for them. When there is a problem, they want help. When they offer their opinions, they expect serious consideration be given to them. They would like their phone calls promptly returned and their e-mails answered. These are all things that I have done in my public life and, as a state representative, will continue to do.
As a City Council member, I stood up for citizens and fought for their voice to be heard. I voted against tax hikes and bailouts. I demanded transparency on how tax dollars were being spent. I sought and received public input from constitutes on my decisions. I have a proven track record.
So, why am I running for office? The answer is quite simple. I am running because I want to help people. I want to be your voice and in return, be worthy of the faith and trust you place in me. I would consider it an honor if you would vote for me in Tuesday’s primary.
Star recommendations for the Missouri House
Kansas City Star Editorial
7/27/2010
Familiar challenges, unfamiliar faces. That’s the backdrop for Missouri voters contemplating their choices in legislative races on Aug. 3.
Term limits have created an abundance of empty seats, but freshman legislators will have little time for a learning curve.
Tough budgets and other big issues await them.
With that in mind, here are The Star’s recommendations for contested area House seats in the primary.
District 55: Sheila Solon has been a strong and independent voice on the Blue Springs City Council. She is an impressive candidate for the seat being vacated by Bryan Pratt. Her Republican opponent is Mike Parker, a recent graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City master of business administration program.
Clay Rodgers is running unopposed as a Democrat, and Jeffrey Hoorfar is the Libertarian Party candidate
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 By Jeff Martin - jeff.martin@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Jul 12, 2010 @ 11:47 PM
Blue Springs, MO —
Sheila Solon, R-Blue Springs, is running for the Missouri House of Representatives District 55 seat against Michael Parker. The two are running for a shot at the Republican slot on in the Aug. 3 primary. The winner will face Clay Rodgers, D-Blue Springs, and Jeffrey Hoorfar, L-Blue Springs, in November.
1 What are the three most important issues facing the 55th District, and how do you plan to address them?
Economy, jobs and schools. We need to get people back to work. Government needs to get out of the way so businesses can prosper. We need to insure our children receive a quality education.
2 You’ve been critical in the past regarding tax incentives and how they are used, especially on the local level. What are your thoughts regarding a proposed jobs bill that will help the Missouri Innovation Park in Blue Springs?
I oppose the lack of transparency by the EDC and the questionable spending of 1.2 million on land options and legal fees. I will support projects which bring real jobs and businesses to our community.
3 Are there any specific Blue Springs issues you plan to make Jefferson City aware of?
Eastern Jackson County expects fiscal responsibility, accountability and transparency in government. Government needs to tighten its belt and cut spending just as we the citizens have done. Work towards making Missouri Innovation Park a reality.
4 What three areas should get first priority for added spending when the economy recovers and state, county and local revenues improve?
When we get through this economic downturn, we need to gauge future spending decisions as to true need and not slip back to what got us here. Even in good times we need to continue to live within our means
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 By Sheila Solon
Submitted to The Examiner
Posted May 13, 2010 @ 11:14 PM
Blue Springs, MO —
I want to thank the citizens of Blue Springs for the past honor and privilege of serving as their City Councilman. You welcomed me as a friend into your hearts and homes. I have learned and grown with every encounter and my life has been enriched by you.
As most of you know I did not seek re-election to the City Council and decided to run for State Representative in the Missouri 55th District. I was very torn when making this decision for I felt that my conservative values were still very much needed on the City Council. Ultimately, I decided I could be of greater service by running for state office.
Elected officials reflect their core values and beliefs through their voting records. My record on the City Council proves I will take tough stands and be willing to go against the majority when the rights of the minority are violated. I diligently went through every city budget to find ways to cut fat and wasteful spending. I have the mettle to take criticism and stand up for residents.
■ I fought for the citizen’s interests against the majority when the decision was made this past year to raise your property taxes.
■ I have consistently voted against and opposed extra sales taxes being imposed upon our citizenry.
■ I fought a $32 million bailout of a private shopping center developer. This bailout has the potential of putting the taxpayers on the hook for up to $2.9 million a year if sales projections are not met.
■ As a Planning Commissioner I stood up against a video store who sold pornography in a backroom while calling themselves family friendly.
■ I have fought for transparency and openness in our government.
The day after I won my City Council election I remember driving around the neighborhoods and thinking, I represent all of these people and they have placed their trust in me to look out for their best interests. With every vote and decision I made, I remembered that I serve the people and I must honor that trust by doing the right thing. It wasn’t always easy, but it was gratifying.
Every taxpayer has the right to know how their money is being spent and every citizen should easily be able to express their opinions to their elected representatives. Your voice should be heard and I will continue to listen to you and your concerns. Keeping folks connected and involved is essential to a responsive, active government.
Hopefully, I will be able to continue to serve our communities, albeit in a different capacity, as your State Representative. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful opportunity to serve.
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 City Council abused power in shutting down debate
Sheila Solon, Blue Springs City Council member
Submitted to The Examiner March 31, 2010
Edition: Web Edition
Public service has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Having the ability to help a resident with a problem is what makes being a councilman worthwhile. Using the power of office for good and being a voice and advocate for the people is why I serve.
Last Thursday, at a special meeting of the City Council, our citizens witnessed the abuse of power and trust. The meeting was ostensibly held to discuss the possibility of the taxpayers backing bonds worth $18 million for RED Development. These were in addition to the previously approved $14 million. We were being asked to do something that I believe went against approved city policies and was a potential financial risk for our citizens.
Two days before the meeting, the council finally received the market study that gave us the data on which to base a decision on whether to support or to deny this request. After reviewing the information, I had serious concerns about the validity of the data and the lack of necessary details that I felt I needed to make an informed decision. The sales leakage numbers seemed to be overly inflated, and I was looking forward to having the ability to question the supporting document at the council meeting.
Unfortunately, as I was asking questions, a motion was make by Councilman Reed to stop all discussion and it was agreed upon by Councilmen Lauer, Shaver and Mayor Ross. At that point, all discussion and questions where shut down. A vote was taken, and only Councilman Fowler and I did not vote for approval of the bonds.
It was the most important vote I have made in my three years on the council and not a word from the public and few questions from this elected representative were permitted. When did silence take precedence over open dialogue in government? Intimidation and bullying tactics should never be used to silence the public or their elected officials. It was truly shameful.
Taking the oath of office is a sacred trust between those elected and the people they serve. On April 6 we will have citywide elections. I pray for our mayor and I pray that our future city councilmen do not break that trust again. We deserve transparency in our government and we should demand that the current people who are supposed to be serving us hear our voices.
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Blue Springs councilwoman to run for 55th District seat
By The Pointe Staff
Published: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 3:48 PM CST
Blue Springs City Council member Sheila Solon has declared her candidacy as State Representative for the 55th District of the Missouri House. The Blue Springs Republican made the announcement last week that she will be running for the seat currently held by Bryan Pratt, who will term out this year. The district includes much of Blue Springs south of I-70, most of Grain Valley and Oak Grove, as well as parts of unincorporated Jackson County.
Pratt is seeking the 8th District Senate seat currently held by Matt Bartle, who is also term limited.
Solon is wrapping up her first term on the City Council. She previously served on the Blue Springs Planning Commission.
“I believe strongly that we need to hold the line on spending and taxes,” she said. “The state must tighten its belt just like the average citizen has to do during these hard economic times. Government needs to get out of the way and let businesses create jobs,” Solon said in a press release.
She added that her three main goals will be curbing runaway spending, lowering taxes, and improving education.
The election will be in November, and so far no other candidates have officially announced for the seat, although fellow Blue Springs resident Clay Rodgers, a Democrat, announced plans to run on a website and facebook page ahead of a rumored candidacy late last year.
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Blue Springs Council member Sheila Solon has declared her candidacy for the 55th District of the Missouri House of Representatives
By Jeff Martin - jeff.martin@examiner.net
The Examiner
Posted Jan 05, 2010 @ 12:26 AM
Blue Springs, MO —
Solon, a Republican, made the announcement Monday morning. She is vying for the seat currently held by Bryan Pratt, who is term limited this year, and is seeking the 8th District Senate seat currently held by Matt Bartle.
The 55th District includes southern Blue Springs, Grain Valley and Oak Grove.
Solon, who has served in numerous city capacities including three years on City Council and nine years on the Blue Springs Planning Commission, decided to run for the state seat rather than for a second term on the Blue Springs City Council. Her council term ends in April. She said Monday it was a natural progression.
“I thought about this very carefully,” Solon, who represents District 3, said. “Over the holidays the decision became clear, and I have support from my family, which is very important.”
The election for the 55th District seat is in November, with the possibility of a primary election in August. So far, no other candidates have publicly announced their intentions of running for the seat.
If elected, Solon said she wants to concentrate on three areas: runaway state spending, taxes and schools.
“Eighty-five percent of the new jobs created are created by small businesses,” she said, “and that needs protected.”
In a press release issued Monday, Solon said:
“I believe strongly that we need to hold the line on spending and taxes,” she said. “The state must tighten its belt just like the average citizen has to do during these hard economic times. Government needs to get out of the way and let businesses create jobs.”
She continued:
“We need to have less red tape and fewer regulations to help facilitate an environment for job creation. We need to strive to make sure that the state meets its obligations that allow our school districts to provide quality education for all of our children. We need to fully fund the foundation formula and make sure that teachers have the tools and protections that they need to do their jobs.”
Solon said everyone can expect her to work for them on their behalf.
“The key to my public service has been that I share the same beliefs and values with my neighbors,” she said in the release.
Grant Bowerman, 56, of the Stone Creek subdivision, has so far been the only resident to file for the District 3 race.
The filing deadline for City Council is Jan 19 and the election is on April 6th
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Sheila Solon declares candidacy for State Representative for 55th District.
Lee's Summit Tribune
January 4, 2010
Blue Springs City Councilman Sheila Solon announced today her plans to run for State Representative in the 55th District.
Solon has a background in public service. She has served as the Mayor Pro-Tem, for 3 years as City Councilman, 9 years on the Blue Springs Planning Commission (several as the Chair), Chairman of the Development Advisory Commission, Chairman of the Comprehensive Plan Review Commission, Chairman of the Multi-Family Task Force Commission, served on the Board of Zoning and Adjustment, Charter Review Committees, City Area Plan Committee, Capital Improvements Committees, and the Citizen’s Police Academy. Solon has served the Blue Springs School District as the PTA President at Cordill-Mason Elementary, on the Citizens Advisory Committee, and the Superintendent’s Roundtable. Solon is also an active member of First United Methodist Church in Blue Springs.
“The key to my public service has been that I share the same beliefs and values with my neighbors. My continuing commitment to public service will include taking these beliefs and values to Jefferson City. We need hard-working, honest people in Jefferson City who look out for our interests.”
Solon is running for the seat being vacated by Bryan Pratt who is term limited this year.
In announcing her candidacy, Solon identified several issues facing the State at this time. “I believe strongly that we need to hold the line on spending and taxes. The state must tighten its belt just like the average citizen has to do during these hard economic times. Government needs to get out of the way and let businesses create jobs. Small business owners create 85% of all new jobs. We need to have less red tape and fewer regulations to help facilitate an environment for job creation. We need to strive to make sure that the state meets its obligations that allow our school districts to provide quality education for all of our children. We need to fully fund the foundation formula and make sure that teachers have the tools and protections that they need to do their jobs."
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