The eight-member Festus City Council includes two representatives from each of the four wards, and each year, half of the council comes up for election. However, only voters in Ward 2 will have a choice to make in the April 2 election.
Kyle Wilkey is running for a second two-year term in Ward 2, but he faces challenges from Festus R-6 Board of Education member Marcus Shepherd and former council member Tim Montgomery, whom Wilkey defeated two years ago. Montgomery had served three terms on the council.
Shepherd and Montgomery did not return Leader candidate questionnaires.
In Ward 1, David Boyer, who was appointed to replace Paul Schaffer, who moved out of the city, is running unopposed for a full term.
The incumbent in Ward 3, Robert “Bobby” Venz is running on April 2 for mayor, and former longtime councilman Kevin Dennis is running unopposed to return to the council as his replacement.
Michael Cook has no opponent in his bid to serve a third term representing Ward 4.
Council members are paid $300 per month.
WILKEY, 29, lives at 22 Flora Drive. He is the Jefferson County organizer for Missouri Health Care for All. A 2008 graduate of Festus High School, he received an associate degree from Jefferson College in 2010, a bachelor’s degree in education from Central Methodist University and is pursuing a master’s degree in teacher leadership at Southeast Missouri State University.
What are the biggest problems facing the city and how would you address them?
Wilkey: The lagoon at West City Park. I would like to be on the council to oversee the closure of the lagoon and make sure that what the city decides to go with will support future growth.
Why should voters elect you to this position? List your goals, if elected.
Wilkey: I truly care about this city and the people in it. I have training in leadership and a passion to make Festus a great place to live. I would like to see more businesses in downtown Main Street and other developments, as well as updating and adding sidewalks so our residents have safe ways to get around town. I would also like to bring in more things for youth to do in the area, whether that be adding to our parks or attracting businesses.