Colfax councilmember issues statements regarding mayoral concerns

First and foremost, I am not a politician – I am a wife and mother who wants Colfax to be a great place to raise a family. I was appointed to the Colfax City Council in mid-2023 and re-elected, unopposed, in 2024. Recent comments have come from a small group opposing my transition into the mayoral position for 2026. Some of these individuals have expressed different priorities than I have for how the city should spend its limited budget, and others have ideas for Colfax's future that are different from what I envision. Differing viewpoints are a normal part of city government. These individuals have raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest related to my role as president of Colfax Railroad Days (CRRD), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. At the time I was appointed to the council, I was deeply involved with the CRRD board, and it was known that I was assuming the president position after the 2023 event in early September, and I have continued serving through my unopposed re-election. City legal counsel has never identified a prohibited financial conflict of interest requiring my recusal from any City Council decisions, as CRRD is a nonprofit organization and my role with CRRD is entirely unpaid. Nevertheless, I have voluntarily recused myself from decisions involving public funding for CRRD events or use of funds donated to the city by CRRD for city projects. The other objections expressed were personal opinions of me, and I will not engage in a character debate. I believe actions speak louder than words. When I see work that needs to be done, I step in and do it – even if that approach ruffles a few feathers. My service to Colfax – as a resident, parent, nonprofit president and councilmember – reflects a commitment to listening, showing up and turning ideas into results. These efforts have included both large and small community events, downtown improvements, grant-seeking for public amenities, support for families in partnership with local food banks, children's gatherings, ongoing promotion of local businesses and events, to name a few. While we may not always agree, I value constructive dialogue and differing perspectives. I love Colfax and remain enthusiastic about our community's future and continued success.