To the editor:

I am a Sunset Hills alderman and would like to share a positive story about a candidate for state representative.

Since taking office, I have had many more positive than negative experiences. The residents are truly incredible to work with and for. My first challenge in office was dealing with the Sunset Hills tornado. This was a time when I truly realized the definition of “public servant.”

This challenge had nothing to do with power nor a heavy-handed agenda. This called me to follow up my jargon with some action and be of service.

This past year, my ward was hit once again with the Great Flood. The morning we assembled to prepare sandbags prior to the flooding was freezing cold. But the community rallied and before you knew it, residents and volunteers from nearby churches began arriving, bundled up and ready for work.

While I was getting coffee, a group of young men joined the team. I assumed they were from a church group and I introduced myself. One of the gentlemen explained he lived close by and told me to keep him on the list for future challenges and to keep him informed of what he could do to help. I found his name was David Gregory — the gentleman running for the Missouri House for our district.

I made a sarcastic comment that it was “nice to see a politician getting his hands dirty.” He responded that neighbors help neighbors, and this is exactly what politicians should be doing —serving. I realized then that he was different. As I got to know him better, I became very impressed with his integrity, work ethic, knowledge and passion for helping others. His personal history fit with his values.

The more I learned, I realized I would have to support him and tell people about this positive brand of politician — the public servant. It’s hard to find an individual who is true to his message, stays on task with what he will deliver after elected and then follows through with action, professionalism and leadership.

I truly believe David Gregory represents the mindset needed to turn things around in government. We need strong and intelligent leaders who are not afraid to work hard and who will remember who they work for, the residents they serve.