Ugh. Politics. At its best, its about service. But more and more, its becoming a bunch of other stuff that sucks. From national headlines to state houses and now even into small-town elections, weve seen what happens when hyper-partisanship and culture wars replace goodwill, common sense, and thoughtful governance.
Brookings has largely resisted that and we still can. But only when we elect local leaders who are grounded, open-minded, and serious about their responsibilities.
Thats why Im voting for Bonny Specker and Holly Tilton Byrne for city council, and Teri Johnson and Cassie Juba for school board.
These candidates arent backed by statewide Washington-style PACs or promising to turn Brookings red or blue. They bring budgets, ideas, questions, and deep respect forand fromthe people they serve. They come with real investment in, and knowledge of, Brookings.
Some well-meaning folks have echoed the easily disproved claim that the current council is secretive or agenda-driven. The narrative just doesnt hold up to how this council actually operates: with open meetings, public engagement, and a whole lot of due diligence.
The evidence for the claim? Frequent unanimous votes. Yes, really. But thats not how dysfunction looks thats how maturity looks. Questions and disagreements are addressed early in study sessions, first readings, conversations with constituents and staff, and through research and lots of listening. By the time votes are cast, council members have done their homework and often found common ground. Anyone paying attention in good faith can see that. (Maybe Congress could take notes from these guys.)
Heres what their approach has delivered: a balanced budget, increased reserves, and one of the lowest property tax rates in South Dakota for a city our size. Thats fiscal conservatism with real returns: the new I-29 exit, Marketplace development, infrastructure upgrades like 22nd Avenue and 20th Street South, and major investment in parks, public safety, and essential staffing.
The council has added positions in the police department, landfill, and maintenance crews roles critical to keeping our city safe and functioning. Brookings is now ranked among the ten safest college towns in America, and the safest in South Dakota. That doesnt happen by accident.
While some may feel unheard when outcomes dont align with their initial views, the record shows a council that actively seeks input and governs with the broader good and majority opinion in mind. When federal ARPA funds came in, a city-wide survey was conducted to identify priorities. The public named childcare, housing, and mental health. The city respondedinvesting in all three and building strong partnerships. Thats how local government should work.
Lets be honest about what else were seeing in this election. Youve probably received the PAC-backed text messages. Youve heard national talking points creep into our local race. Ask yourself: Who benefits when Brookings becomes a political pawn for someone elses agenda?
Meanwhile, this council has shown up literally. In 2022, members attended fewer than 10 community events outside meetings. In 2024, that number topped 60. This year, theyre on track to exceed 100 notices of quorum. Thats what public service looks like.
On the school board, Teri Johnson has led with steadiness and clarity during a time of transition. She brings no agenda but improving education and inclusively supporting the people who make it happenstudents, educators, and administrators.
Cassie Juba brings fresh energy and deep educational experience. Shes the kind of board member we need: someone who listens first, asks smart questions, and makes decisions based on evidence not ideology or outside pressure.
This election isnt about ideological dominance. Its about protecting the sanity, stability, and small-town decency Brookings is known for. Its about rejecting the circus of partisan politics and choosing steady, transparent local leadership.
There are good reasons our municipal seats are nonpartisan. I see it as a red flag when any campaign tries to turn it into a partisan race regardless of affiliation. Thats not how a forward-thinking community serves its people. Tired of political personalities who preach values but govern with solutionless complaints, chaos, and chainsaws? Me too.
Thats why Im voting for Specker, Tilton-Byrne, Johnson, and Juba. Theyre not trying to pass ideological loyalty tests. Theyre just trying to do the job with integrity, accountability, and heart.
When you vote today or on April 8, ask yourself: Do you want leadership that listens, shows up, and solves real problemsor another political playbook designed to divide us?
Vote! For the team thats earned your trust not bought your inbox. This is our town, our future, and our chance to keep Brookings at its best.
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