Editor’s Note: The NKyTribune is offering one free op-ed postings from NKY candidates in major races in which there is opposition for the November 3 General Election. All candidates may send op-ed’s of 1000 words or less to be published before November 1. The commentary should be positive about the candidate and his/her positions. Candidates are asked not to wait until the last minute — submissions will be published in the order in which they are received.
It has been an honor to serve the people of Independence on the City Council since 2002. Over the past two decades, I have watched our community evolve, face challenges, and thrive. Today, I am asking for the opportunity to build upon that foundation of service as your next Mayor.
Public service is more than a title; it is a commitment to the people who call this city home. My journey in local government, supported by a degree in political science and public administration, has been defined by a simple philosophy: residents deserve leadership that is both pragmatic and principled. As I look toward the future of Independence, I see a city at a crossroads. Not all growth can be stopped and it is disingenuous to say it can be, but we can manage it and how we manage that growth will define our community for generations to come.
My platform is built on the pillars of smart, responsible stewardship, and it begins with the foundation of our quality of life: public safety. A secure city is a prosperous city. I am committed to providing our first responders with the resources they need to keep our streets safe while ensuring we respect the privacy and rights of every law-abiding citizen. Safety is not just about enforcement; it is about collaboration. I will continue to work directly with our neighbors to ensure our communities remain welcoming, secure, and resilient.
Managing a city of 30,000 people with a budget exceeding $15 million requires more than just good intentions; it requires a proven track record. Fiscal responsibility is not merely a campaign talking point for me—it is a practice. I have spent my tenure on Council ensuring that every dollar is spent with transparency and precision. As Mayor, I will continue to prioritize lean, efficient governance, delivering high-quality services without reaching into your pockets for higher taxes. I will also focus on ensuring that our infrastructure catch up with our growth and can support the families and businesses that choose to call Independence home.
Beyond the numbers, we must invest in the spaces that bring us together. Our parks and recreation facilities are the heart of this community. They are where our children learn to play, where our seniors find community, and where we all find a moment of peace in the green spaces that define our landscape. I pledge to maintain these areas to the highest standards, investing in recreational opportunities that serve residents of every age and background.
Experience matters. Over the last twenty-four years, I have navigated the complexities of municipal law, zoning, and community development. I know how the city functions, but more importantly, I know why it functions: because of the people.
My goal is to lead a city that reflects the values and the vision of those who live here. That means listening to you—not just during election season, but every single day. I believe that the best solutions aren’t found in a vacuum; they are found in conversation with the residents who have a stake in our shared success.
I am proud of what we have accomplished together, but I am even more excited about what we can build next. I am asking for your vote this November because I believe in the potential of Independence. I believe that with steady, proven leadership, we can maintain the high quality of life that makes our city the envy of the region while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.
I would be honored to earn your vote. I encourage you to reach out, ask questions, and share your vision for our future. Together, we can ensure that the best days for Independence are still ahead of us.
For more information or to reach out to me please visit carol4mayor.com or email carolformayor26@gmail.com.
Carol Franzen is a candidate for mayor of Independence.