John Theis, Junction City commissioner candidate, vows road repairs, budget transparency and citizen engagement

John Theis, a candidate for Junction City City Commissioner, said he will prioritize repairing neighborhood streets, cutting what he called wasteful spending and increasing resident engagement if elected. “My top 3 priorities are… eliminate wasteful spending, fix the roads, not just Grant and Jackson, and getting all the citizens involved,” Theis said.

Theis said his motivation for running is rooted in what he described as uneven investment across neighborhoods. He said areas he lives in are “underserved” while neighborhoods such as Spring Valley and those around Ashe receive more work from the city’s public works department. He argued that major decisions that “significantly impact Junction City” should be open for public discussion and, where appropriate, include a citizen vote before implementation.

To address infrastructure needs, Theis proposed a comprehensive assessment of all neighborhoods to identify road maintenance problems and to coordinate solutions with the public works department. He said the city should monitor progress, hold departments accountable for timely completion, and not limit repairs to main arteries such as Grant and Jackson.

On transparency, Theis said he believes tax dollars are sometimes spent without adequate public awareness and recommended regular updates to residents via social media and local newspapers. He also described a neighborhood outreach plan: visiting blocks, gathering residents’ suggestions, compiling feedback and presenting it to the city commission for collaborative action.

Theis noted local community assets, naming a homeless shelter, the Magdalene Project and the Harmony Center as organizations that support veterans and others in need. He identified Milford Lake as a nearby recreational resource and said neighborhood cleanups and family-friendly activities could change perceptions and attract residents and businesses.

Addressing personal motivation and financial concerns, Theis said he did not run for the $700 monthly commissioner stipend. “When I file my candidacy, if elected, I will donate that $700 or however much it is to a 5 0 1 c,” he said, adding he would post receipts on the commissioner Facebook page to document the donations.

Theis closed by emphasizing the nonpartisan nature of the office and the need for commissioners to work together. He said he will listen to community members and act on their concerns if elected.

The remarks are campaign statements by a candidate; no formal action or commission vote was taken during this event.