Brian Haskins is facing an unexpected challenge in his bid to secure a second term as the District 1 representative on the Jefferson County Council.
Haskins defeated three challengers in the Republican Party’s primary in August, and with no Democrat filing for the seat, figured to have an unopposed election in November.
However, Steve Kasten of the Eureka area has signed up as a registered write-in candidate for the four-year seat.
Write-in candidates have no party affiliation, and if there is at least one candidate on the ballot, only a registered write-in candidate is allowed by state law to claim the seat if he or she collects the most votes.
County Council representatives are paid $11,650.32 a year.
HASKINS, 66, of High Ridge owns and operates Haskins Storage in High Ridge. He and his wife, Becky, have four children and 13 grandchildren. A 1974 graduate of Northwest High School, he attended Jefferson College.
KASTEN, 61, of the Eureka area is the vice president of surveying and photogrammetric engineering at Surdex in Chesterfield. He has three sons with his wife, Denise. He holds a master’s degree in civil engineering from Purdue University, a bachelor’s degree in earth science from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and completed 20 hours of graduate studies in photogrammetry and geodesy at Washington University. He is a licensed land surveyor in five states, is a certified photogrammetrist and provides consulting services to the U.S. Army.
Social media: Facebook: Write In Steve Kasten
What experience do you have that might serve you well in this position?
Haskins: My experience is well rounded from owning a small business in High Ridge to being elected and serving as a current council member. I served for six years as a board member for the High Ridge Fire Protection District and three years as a board member of the Northwest School District. I also have been involved in civic organizations, including the Jefferson County Parks Foundation, High Ridge Rotary Club and Northwest Chamber of Commerce.
Kasten: As a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Eureka for 33 years, I have served in many positions. I have been president for six years and have been vice president, treasurer and board of youth and school board member. I have also worked extensively in flood relief throughout Jefferson County. In these positions, I have developed a strong understanding of how an organization’s success is built by the quality of the leadership.
What specific needs exist in your County Council district, and how would you address them?
Haskins: Continue supporting economic growth so we have more jobs and services available for our residents.
Kasten: The fundamental concern in District 1 relates to land development. The current philosophy of the council is to approve high-density housing with variances on the existing zoning of a parcel. This is inconsistent with the desire of most residents in the district. Many residents of District 1 live in Jefferson County because of the large-lot open environment. The recent high-density developments have changed the character of our community in a negative way. Going forward, the council should limit the number of variances allowed for high-density housing and improve infrastructure to support current traffic volume.
What grade would you give the current County Council and why? What improvements would you make?
Haskins: I would give our current council a B. For the most part, we do get many things accomplished but sometimes turn down quality projects that would have supported our schools, first responders and many other services. The council would be improved with better communication and teamwork working toward achievable goals.
Kasten: C-minus. The current council is failing the residents of Jefferson County. I have observed the frustration and anger of residents toward their elected officials. Residents feel disconnected and not heard; it is not a successful governing situation. Better communication is required through public meetings and online access to more information regarding government spending. I would encourage routine meetings with the council and mayors within Jefferson County to discuss the needs and concerns of each community.
What role should the County Council take to encourage residential and commercial growth?
Haskins: Support ideas that make our community more desirable to live here and do business here, for example cleaning up more nuisance properties and providing more recreation opportunities.
Kasten: The council should encourage responsible growth by focusing on appropriate residential and commercial development that fits into the character and zoning of existing communities. The topography differs in the county; what fits best in Arnold may not fit in De Soto or northwest Jefferson County. It is important to encourage customized solutions that reflect the character of each area and take into consideration the wants and needs of each community. The council should provide better communication to the community before development proposals.
Why should voters elect you to this position? List your goals, if elected.
Haskins: My support and leadership has brought many improvements to our district. The sidewalk-and-streetlight project on High Ridge Boulevard started in 2019 and is scheduled to begin construction this year. During my term, we have accepted nearly 18 miles of subdivision streets in District 1 alone. Park improvements include a pavilion, new pickleball and basketball courts and restrooms at the High Ridge Civic Center. Pleasant Valley Park will be getting running water, electricity and new restrooms soon. My goal is to make District 1 better for everyone. I’m from here, live here, work here and I care.
Kasten: I possess the experience, understanding and personality to serve my community without bias or favoritism. I will always listen to the concerns of residents and make decisions based on the best interest of the majority. I respect the hard-working taxpayers of Jefferson County and will promote responsible spending and transparency in government. My goals include refining the planning and zoning process to protect current residents; improving roads and the transportation infrastructure; addressing flood preparedness and remediation; and encourage senior housing developments under the direction of experienced nonprofit organizations.