Robert Kilgo (Wyoming City Commission At-large, Michigan, candidate 2024)

Robert Kilgo

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Nonpartisan

Candidate, Wyoming City Commission At-large

Elections and appointments

Last election

August 6, 2024

Personal

Profession

Higher education administration

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Robert Kilgo ran for election to the Wyoming City Commission At-large. Kilgo was on the ballot in the general election on November 5, 2024.^[source]

Kilgo completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Robert Kilgo provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on August 8, 2024:

• Bachelor's: Grace Christian University, 2020
• Profession: Higher Education Administration
• Incumbent officeholder: No
• Campaign slogan: For a Better Wyoming
• Campaign website
• Campaign Facebook

Elections

General election

General election for Wyoming City Commission At-large

Sheldon DeKryger and Robert Kilgo ran in the general election for Wyoming City Commission At-large on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate
	Submit photo	Sheldon DeKryger (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Robert Kilgo (Nonpartisan)

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	Incumbency information for this election was not available.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Wyoming City Commission At-large

Sheldon DeKryger, Robert Kilgo, and Rick Pilieci ran in the primary for Wyoming City Commission At-large on August 6, 2024.

		Candidate
	Submit photo	Sheldon DeKryger (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Robert Kilgo (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Rick Pilieci (Nonpartisan)

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	Incumbency information for this election was not available.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Kilgo in this election.

Campaign themes

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Robert Kilgo completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Kilgo's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Robert Kilgo, and I am running for the at-large position on the Wyoming City Council. I have lived in Wyoming for 9 years and proudly call this city my home. My background in public service and with city affairs, including roles as a Parks & Recreation Commissioner and working with nonprofits, has equipped me with the skills needed to serve effectively on the City Council.

Active involvement in our community has given me a deep appreciation for our city's qualities and its wonderful residents. I believe in the crucial role young people play in the electoral process and strive to encourage voter participation from all ages and backgrounds. Transparency and integrity are my guiding principles, and I aim to foster a stronger sense of community pride and engagement.

Regardless of if I am elected or not, I am dedicated to working towards the betterment of our community, ensuring all voices are heard and respected. Our city has a lot of potential, and I am invested in seeing that we take the right course into the future.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Investing in city beautification and restoration is essential for increasing property values, spurring economic growth, fostering community pride, and reducing crime. By enhancing green spaces with parks and gardens, improving infrastructure, promoting public art projects, and organizing community clean-up initiatives, we can make Wyoming a more beautiful and inviting place to live, work, or visit. The possibilities are endless, and I am committed to exploring all options to achieve this vision.
• Addressing the housing shortage in Wyoming is crucial for our community's stability. Affordable housing is essential for individuals and families of all income levels, and its absence creates financial strain. While comprehensive solutions are needed at different levels of government, our city can take steps to increase access to affordable housing. Affordable housing is vital for attracting a talented workforce, supporting local businesses, and fostering a healthy community. I want to ensure that everyone in Wyoming has access to affordable housing and the opportunity to succeed.
• Wyoming has the potential to be a major economic hub in West Michigan, thanks to our proximity to Grand Rapids. Realizing this potential requires proactive efforts to make our city a great place for both businesses and residents. I am committed to fostering economic investment and prosperity by working with residents, businesses, and community stakeholders to identify growth areas. By leveraging our strengths and resources, we can attract new businesses and create more job opportunities. Specifically, I will focus on targeted industry growth and improving city infrastructure to attract businesses and investors.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

City planning is a passion of mine because I believe everyone in Wyoming, regardless of income level, should have the opportunity to enjoy all that our city has to offer. Thoughtful planning can create a vibrant community where all residents have easy access to quality parks, public spaces, and essential services. I am committed to ensuring that our city grows in a way that benefits everyone, creating a sense of pride and belonging for all residents.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

As the legislative body of the city, the Wyoming City Council is directly responsible for making decisions that shape the daily lives of residents. Its responsibilities include passing local laws, guiding budget priorities, and addressing community needs in a way that reflects the specific character and aspirations of Wyoming.

What makes the City Council particularly important is how community-focused it is. Council members are directly elected by Wyoming residents and are the most local representation you will have. This intimate connection allows for more tailored and responsive governance compared to the state or federal government.

Additionally, the City Council is instrumental in fostering community engagement and transparency. By working with city staff and residents, council members help ensure that local policies are developed with input from those most affected. This approach can strengthen local democracy and ensures that the city's unique needs and opportunities are addressed effectively.

To sum it up, the Wyoming City Council’s unique position lies in its direct accountability to our city, its role in local decision-making, and its ability to engage residents in shaping their own city’s future.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to my father. He is kind, steadfast, and always willing to help someone in need. Not everyone is blessed to have a dad like that, and I don't take that for granted. I'm lucky to have such a role model in my life.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I often reflect on President George Washington's Farewell Address, given as he willingly stepped down from the presidency, setting a powerful example of a peaceful transfer of power as essential for a thriving democracy.

One of my favorite aspects of that address was Washington's belief that the strength of our nation lies in its ability to remain united and to work together for the common good. Ultimately we are all Americans, regardless of our individual policy beliefs. Maintaining respect for each other and our system of government is crucial to preserving this great nation. This address resonates deeply with me and remains as relevant today as it was then.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

As someone who cares about city planning and community development, I believe that the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, transparency, and empathy. Integrity helps an individual make decisions with honesty and moral soundness, creating trust among constituents.

Transparency in communication and actions builds accountability and allows residents to stay informed and engaged.

Empathy is crucial for understanding the various needs of our community and making compassionate decisions. Additionally, a commitment to community collaboration and fairness ensures that all residents can be heard and that policies promote opportunity for everyone in Wyoming. These principles guide me in my campaign and are the foundation of my vision for Wyoming.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

For a Wyoming City Council Member, the core duties include fiscal responsibility of city dollars, overseeing effective city planning, and promoting economic development. This involves constantly making informed decisions that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Building strong relationships with constituents and stakeholders is also essential to understand their needs and work collaboratively towards our common goals.

Additionally, maintaining accountability through all actions is necessary for building trust and ensuring that the city’s growth is managed responsibly.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I wish to leave behind a legacy of dedicated public service and the belief in its importance for a fulfilling life. My goal is to improve our city and inspire future generations to embrace public service, carrying with them the same pride and enthusiasm that I believe we should all have for our community. I want Wyoming to be better for having had my contribution, no matter how large or small the impact.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was custodial work. Every morning at 5 AM, I would get to work and clean offices before a business would open. That was a tough job, and I have a lot of respect for those who provide that service. That role taught me to build a strong work ethic and the importance of reliability.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Throughout my life, I've often struggled with self-doubt and insecurity, and I know many people can relate. Yet I fight against those feelings, knowing that most of the time we are our own worst critics. Working on these areas has shown me the value of self-respect and the importance of empathy toward others.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

In Wyoming's council-manager form of government, the city council holds a vital responsibility that might not be widely known: selection of the city manager.

Unlike in strong mayor systems, where the mayor has executive powers, Wyoming’s model separates the legislative and executive functions. The City Council, elected by the community, is responsible for enacting ordinances, guiding policies, and managing the city’s budget. Meanwhile, the city manager, appointed by the Council, executes these policies and oversees the daily operations of the city.

This structure ensures that the city manager is held accountable to the council, which in turn is accountable to the residents. The appointment of the city manager is a critical power because it directly influences how effectively the city’s policies are implemented and how efficiently city services are delivered.

Greater awareness of this role can help residents understand how their local government functions and the importance of electing council members who will make responsible choices when selecting their city manager.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

While previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial, the local nature of the city council presents a unique opportunity for any citizen to get involved and make a meaningful impact. I believe that drive, determination, and a deep commitment to serving the community are equally important in a race such as this one.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

Strong financial acumen is essential, as is experience in evaluating budgets, identifying areas of wasteful spending, and engaging with community members on the issues of the day. However, these are skills that anyone can learn, and the best place to create change in your community is at the local level of elected office. A willingness to learn from your mistakes and become better for it are essential in public office, just as it is in our everyday lives as well.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I hold a commitment to financial transparency at all levels, recognizing that elected officials are entrusted with taxpayer funds and must always be accountable to their constituency. I believe in collaborating with city staff to scrutinize every aspect of the budget to eliminate wasteful spending. Additionally, engaging residents through town hall meetings, personal conversations, and community surveys ensures that their priorities are thoughtfully considered and fosters accountability and buy-in.

I view continuous innovation as a necessity, such as using technology to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Long-term planning is also crucial for maintaining Wyoming's financial health and stability for the future. As an elected official, it's your responsibility to leave your residents better off than when you started.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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