Kelly Grady would make an excellent addition to the Long Lake City Council. I met Kelly earlier in my term as Long Lake’s Mayor when our community was going through a very challenging series of events regarding our fire department and its future. Kelly initially had a different viewpoint on the situation until she began meeting with me and many others in the community who had differing information and background to offer. Once Kelly became aware of further details and facts, she became tenacious about educating other stakeholders. That led Kelly to create an entire public awareness campaign to educate our community about the situation. Kelly spent countless hours on the campaign, which came to be known as Figure Out Fire. Her education, advocacy, marketing, and frequent public speaking had a major effect on the outcome: a jointly operated fire department that will serve our community with efficiency, professionalism, and cost-effectiveness for years to come.

Although Kelly certainly had assistance from others along the way, I can think of no other example in which one person and the campaign they inspired had such a positive impact on the outcome of such an important local public safety issue in our area. I know that Kelly will bring her energy, tenacity, and advocacy to the role of a council member as well. Kelly is very intelligent and excels at gathering facts, speaking with others, and evaluating courses of action before making a decision. Her outgoing personality allows her to connect well with others and build strong relationships, and her creativity and ambition help her problem-solve, no matter the issue.

Besides her work on Figure Out Fire, Kelly has already stepped up to serve her community by being a member of the Long Lake Park Board. Since joining the Park Board, Kelly has spearheaded a new event and has ideas for increasing and broadening other events. Kelly has also contributed to our community in many, many other ways, including creating and leading a fundraiser for local families in need earlier this year.

Please join me in voting for Kelly Grady for the Long Lake City Council, and I unequivocally endorse Kelly Grady for the position