James A. Merryfield III, Mayor
1. What is the biggest challenge that faces the office for which you are running?
Change. nobody likes it, but I think we need change in all aspects. It's going to be an uphill battle, but I think for the good.
Across the board, some are small changes and some are big. Change the way we think and look at new ways to see things.
2. How do you propose to rise to it?
Just put the idea out there, plant the seed and slowly implement the changes, so as not to overwhelm. Get feedback,
once people feel their voice is heard, you can combine ten ideas into one really good one. I would like input and collaboration.
3. What program(s) do you propose to add, cut or change?
First, I would have to get in there and see how it works. I see no changes too soon, and can't say I see any areas to be cut.
Some areas need to be strengthened. I want to get into office to see first. It's a matter of rearranging within the budget,
which was done well this year.
4. How are you prepared for your area of responsibility?
I was an airfield manager of the second largest airport in Afghanistan. There were 15 to 22 thousand people from about 22
different nations there. It is the military equivalent to a mayor.
5. At what sorts of events and affairs within the Kimball community are you ready and willing to
represent and promote the needs of your constituents?
I would go to any event that is beneficial to Kimball, no matter where. A mayor should be a cheerleader for the community and
a spokesperson. I would promote existing business and work with the community to build new ones. Any chance to get a
business in here. Kimball has a great opportunity to grow.
Rick Soper, Kimball school board
1. What is the biggest challenge that faces the office for which you are running?
Budgeting, the state aid formula has changed and the way we finance the schools has
changed a lot. The school district's ability to do business has to as well. We will have to get
creative, find new ways to educate with fewer resources.
2. How do you propose to rise to it?
My intention would be to become very involved, to work closely with the superintendent, and
attend as many workshops to learn new ways to educate our students with NASB.
3. What program(s) do you propose to add, cut or change?
I don't propose to anything right now until I get more familiar with the system and it's needs.
4. How are you prepared for your area of responsibility?
I have 11 years serving on boards, have attended more than 1000 board meetings. I am
familiar with boards duties and functions so I feel quite prepared. The challenge will be to learn more about how the school
functions.
5. At what sorts of events and affairs within the Kimball community are you ready and willing to
represent and promote the needs of your constituents?
I would attend anything that would contribute to my effectiveness as a school board member.
