Fresh Ideas for an Even Better Cascade

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I'm running for Trustee to deliver the same outcomes for Cascade that I did for our schools when the integrity of our districts - and our property values - were on the line. Cascade Township includes Forest Hills, Lowell and Caledonia attendance areas.

Despite having some of the smallest learners in school, my impact is considered among the largest. In 2020-2021, I immediately stepped up to protect our educators, students, and taxpayers from disruption, the local effects of nationally coordinated attacks against public schools, and an unwarranted school board recall election that would have cost $100,000 to facilitate. (FOX 17)

I am the only candidate on the ballot in Cascade Township who raised a hand during such a critical time. Strong schools are one of most important assets and home value drivers! This experience also proved the importance of transparent and moral leadership.

I can do so much more. My students' years in school are limited, but Cascade is our forever home. I will support an even better Cascade by bringing fresh ideas to help advance:

Well-maintained parks, fields, and pathways
Safe water and river access
Proper care of donated land, parks and projects
Walkability and pedestrian safety
Fun and engaging community events that bring neighbors together and, in turn, support businesses

How We'll Achieve an Even Better Cascade

Looking out the window, it's easy to take for granted Cascade's beauty and not give a second thought to the inner workings of our Township. Those are my primary reasons for running. (Learn more about the Trustee Race.)

Accountability will focus on key township leadership areas, including:

Transparency

Promoting universal transparency for the good of our neighbors - not only on the topics the Board of Trustees picks and chooses (See: Becky On the Issues)
Identifying the special interests influencing Cascade Township decision-making
Delivering effective and timely communication, and communicating with all residents in this expansive Township
More thorough meeting notes and record-keeping

Initiative

Actively mitigating safety risks and health hazards (e.g. PFAS, pedestrian safety, our aging dam, and crime incidents)
Advancing opportunities for small businesses, local entrepreneurs, and strategic partnerships
Ongoing protection and maintenance of our parks and pathways
Offering more engaging community resources + recreational events/activities alongside the Downtown Development Authority, Friends of the Cascade Library, Cascade Historical Society, Parks & Recreation Department and Parks Committee

Moral Leadership

Modeling decorum, professionalism, and civil discourse with peers and constituents for more effective and efficient Township meetings
Elevating facts to dispel misinformation and disinformation, and avoid wasteful spending

Effectiveness

Collaborating with the Board and committees to efficiently yet responsibly implement Cascade's Strategic Plan, Master Plan, Downtown Development Authority Strategic Plan, and Parks and Recreation Plan
Applying my project management experience to reduce the instances of action items slipping through the cracks

Trust me with your vote for an even better Cascade. Whether you vote "Straight Party Ticket" or opt for individual choices in each race, you CAN choose up to FOUR Trustee candidates in this election from a mix of both parties and your ballot will still follow the proper protocol to be counted.

Becky Olson