2023 Wichita voter guide: Candidates in primary for mayor respond to questions
Wichita voters will choose two of nine candidates for mayor to move forward to the November general election. The primary vote takes place now through Aug. 1.
The mayor is paid an annual salary of $113,626. The responsibilities include running City Council meetings and working alongside the council to establish policy direction, enact laws and policies, adopt the budget, levy taxes and appoint members to advisory boards.
We asked the candidates to answer several questions about issues. Here is what they said. The responses are largely as the candidates sent them in. Some responses have been lightly edited to fix typos. Bio information was reported by The Eagle.
Note: City elections are nonpartisan, meaning party affiliations do not show up on the ballot. State and local party committees often choose sides in city elections with regard to funding and other forms of support.
Wichita mayoral candidates will debate this week. Here’s how to watch the livestream.
Find our voter guide to Wichita City Council District 4 candidates here.
Find our voter guide to Wichita school board at-large candidates here.
Jared Cerullo
Age: 49
Position: Freelance reporter
Past: Wichita City Council (appointed), District Advisory Board, TV news reporter
Education: Wichita State University
Party: Republican
Phone: 316-249-2941
Email: newsboy559@cox.net
Website: Facebook
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
Two main priorities from Day One.
1. Restore the relationship between the mayor’s office and the Wichita Police Department. We must ensure that City Hall leadership is working hand-in-hand with public safety leaders in order to focus on making Wichita the safest community in Kansas.
2. As mayor, I will lead the charge to bring in a new city manager. It’s time for a fresh face with fresh ideas. Wichita has fallen behind other comparable cities like Tulsa, OKC, and Colorado Springs.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
Century II will be an important topic in the next four years. I believe there will be another effort to tear down Century II and raise our taxes by hundreds of millions of dollars. This is not acceptable. If a plan is brought forward to tear down Century II, I will demand a public vote and I will bind myself to that outcome. I believe performing arts needs a new venue, but any venture must be handled by the private sector.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
I am most qualified due to my life and career experience. Being a journalist for 25+ years, it was my job to watch over local governments and to make sure taxpayer dollars were being spent wisely. I’ve uncovered corruption and misconduct. Serving on the District 3 Advisory Board for five years. Transit Advisory Board for one year. Selected by the council to serve out the remainder of the unexpired term for a member who resigned. My overall vision is to restore honesty and integrity to City Hall.
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
Animal control needs serious attention. I do not believe that the Wichita Animal Shelter should be run by the police department, as it currently is. Dealing with animal shelter issues is not a policing issue and there’s money already in the budget to handle this city service. Management should be realigned.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
I am a lifelong Wichitan who has had opportunities to leave, but I’ve said no. Wichita is a big city without the “big city” traffic. The Wichita Art Museum, Sedgwick County Zoo, and Music Theater of Wichita are high-quality attractions. Wichita doesn’t have the traffic, pollution and cost of living of other big cities like Denver or Kansas City.
Shelia M. Davis (Rainman)
Age: 50
Position: Student, volunteer caregiver
Past: Business card design
Education: Scott Community College (Iowa)
Party: Republican
Phone: 316-553-9926
Email: sheliamic@yahoo.com
Website: N/A
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
Homeless I would get an 24 hour homeless center.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
A family center in the neighborhood of Fairmount, legalizing Mary Jane, teacher raises, four day school weeks and no school on Friday
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
Because I love the people of Wichita, ks, I do go check on the homeless and do volunteer in the community by picking up trash and I will do Police and Family Community park parties with dancing, singing, cookouts and prizes. And I will build the Richard Carville Properties Aptment Community with gardening,parenting, and business classes and community training
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
The homeless 24 hour center and I would give up half my pay to help the community and to build the center
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
The people of town treated me like royalty and the city and police treat me like family and they have an heart of gold in helping me and the people of the town start businesses.
Bryan Frye
Age: 57
Position: Wichita City Council, Kansas Chamber of Commerce senior director of investor relations
Past: District Advisory Board, TV news marketing
Education: Wichita State University
Party: Republican
Phone: 316-258-3623
Email: bryan@votefrye.com
Website: www.votefrye.com
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
Make Wichita safer by immediately stabilizing police staff levels. Too many vacancies, too many officers nearing retirement age, and too few recruits has put the WPD in a crisis situation. This results in poor morale, exhausted employees and slower emergency response times. Use 2023 budget surplus for retention, recruitment and referral bonus pay. Hire more community service officers to support commissioned ranks. Explore extending medical benefits gap coverage for officers nearing retirement. Aggressively recruit.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
Protecting tax payer dollars by holding the line on property tax increases. Realign capital spending with community priorities. Taking care of infrastructure needs before tackling any wants. Wichita has an amazing opportunity to move forward with significant community gains for jobs, quality of life and infrastructure improvements. We must champion neighborhoods and public spaces while prioritizing efficiency, transparency. and action. Collaborate & communicate with community partners to realize our potential.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
I’m a lifelong Wichitan and devoted servant leader with no hidden agenda, a proven track record and a passion for moving Wichita forward. I’m genuinely motivated, vision driven and action oriented. I’m the only candidate with leadership skills in business, non-profit, government and entrepreneurism. I can hit the ground running on day one with my experience, know-how and forward thinking to lead with confidence, collaboration & transparency.
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
We’re simply not keeping up with street maintenance and repair. In my eight years on the council, this is always a top community concern I hear from my neighbors. Slow the timetable for paving dirt streets & bikeway improvements in the 2024-2033 Capital Improvement Proposal. This will add incremental dollars to taking better care of existing roads.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
Our spirit. No matter the obstacle or challenge, Wichita has always persevered with determination, grit and authenticity.
Our togetherness. It feels like everyone is connected by a one-degree of separation.
Our potential. Wichita is ready to soar and the sky is the limit.
Anthony Gallardo
Age: 28
Position: Service desk engineer at Finance of America
Past: Business analyst
Education: University of California Irvine
Party: Democratic
Phone: 949-866-1015
Email: anthony@cybertruck.us
Website: N/A
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
My top priority is economic recovery post-COVID. I’d support this by establishing programs to aid local businesses, attracting new investment to Wichita, investing in educational and vocational training for workforce development, and enhancing our city’s infrastructure. Our goal is to create a robust economy that’s prepared for future challenges and focused on long-term prosperity.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
Another issue I feel strongly about is education. I believe that investing in our schools is investing in Wichita’s future. I’ll advocate for improved funding for our schools, support teacher development programs, and champion initiatives that expand access to quality education for all. Our goal should be to equip our students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
With my background in public administration and dedication to serving our diverse community, I bring the knowledge and empathy needed to lead Wichita. My vision is for a city that’s inclusive, vibrant, and resilient, where every resident has the opportunity to thrive. I am committed to fostering economic growth, improving education, and enhancing our quality of life. Vote for me if you believe in a future where everyone’s voice is heard, and every decision is made with the community’s best interest at heart.
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
I believe our public transportation system could use more resources. An efficient system can drive economic growth and improve quality of life. To fund improvements, we’d pursue state and federal grants, explore public-private partnerships for innovative solutions, and potentially reallocate city budget funds based on a thorough review of current expenditures. It’s about ensuring our resources align with our priorities to effectively serve all residents.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
I love Wichita for its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Its rich history, diverse culture, and the resilient, innovative spirit of its people make it a truly special place. I value our strong sense of community, where neighbors support each other. Wichita’s vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and commitment to education and business growth signify our potential. Above all, it’s home, a place where every resident contributes to our shared narrative and future.
Thomas Kane
Age: 41
Position: Whitefish Media founder, private detective
Past: SEO marketing at GoDaddy.com
Education: Chaparral High School
Party: Independent
Phone: 316-300-1785
Email: thomasjkane42@gmail.com
Website: www.mayorkane.com
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
Education is the backbone of our society and the foundation of a prosperous future. However, it has come to my attention that not all children in Wichita are being granted the same educational opportunities. This is an issue that requires our immediate attention. Let’s foster the spirit of innovation and creativity by introducing our students to coding, entrepreneurship, and digital arts.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
Enhancing our police force is a priority. Better pay will attract top talent, ensuring a dedicated, professional service. Advanced training promotes effective, respectful community interactions, while upgraded equipment enhances officers’ capabilities. Together, these improvements can strengthen public trust, improve response times, and ensure our city remains a safe place to live and work.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
What sets me apart is my unique blend of business experience, visionary thinking, and proven track record of delivering results with plans that get put into action. I promise to use these assets for the betterment of our community. My vision is to create a thriving, inclusive city where every resident and child has access to quality education, affordable housing, healthy food and economic opportunities.
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
Revitalizing downtown Wichita, KS is crucial. Improving our parks and addressing homelessness are key areas of focus. To fund this, we could explore public-private partnerships, increase tourism efforts, and optimize city expenditures. By reinvesting in our community, we’ll enhance our city’s beauty, create a more inclusive environment, and boost local economic growth.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
I don’t love Wichita, and I don’t believe I am wrong when I say neither do most Wichitans’, I’m passionately committed to transforming it eventually into a city that we all DO love though. Together, we can revitalize our neighborhoods, create opportunities for all, and build a vibrant, inclusive community. Let’s reimagine Wichita’s future and make it a place we ALL truly love.
Celeste Racette
Age: 67
Position: Save Century II founder
Past: Fraud investigator, bank examiner
Education: University of Kansas, Wichita State University
Party: Unaffiliated
Phone: 316-491-0247
Email: celesteforwichita@gmail.com
Website: celesteforwichita.com
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
My 25-year banking experience has given me the skills to be a watchdog for taxpayers. We are spending the last of $72 million in ARPA funds. Property taxes have been rising, debt is increasing, and developers keep getting handouts. My priority is to review finances and eliminate wasteful spending. I want to restore the public’s trust in City Hall by providing vigilant oversight as the voice of the people. I will pursue an economic development policy that attracts new businesses without unnecessary handouts.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
The homeless crisis is deepening and you can find individuals living on the streets in every area of Wichita. Many of these individuals have experienced traumatic shock, are unstable and in mental distress. One Rise, a successful program initiated in San Antonio, Texas, is a self-contained campus with a mental health facility, substance addiction counseling, crisis intervention, job training, housing and a community green space. Sedgwick County and City of Wichita should collaborate to adopt this program.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
I am the only candidate with strong fiscal management skills. I have a BS - accounting from KU and MBA from WSU. I worked 25 years in the financial industry, and was an FDIC bank examiner. I wrote RFPs, negotiated complex contracts, and millions of dollars. My overall vision is for honesty, transparency, and integrity. Over the past several years, I’ve exposed shortcomings in city finance and took action when City Hall stood idle. Finance records are misleading. It is too hard to see how taxpayer money is spent!
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
We need to attract more business to Wichita with smart, not wasteful, economic incentives. We need to compete against other regional cities and upgrade job skills of workers to provide living wages. To attract business investment, we need safer streets and family friendly neighborhoods. Sports, child care, and after school programs along with amenities like pools, parks, and recreation centers. This will require the Finance Director, City Manager, and department heads to find funds necessary for improvement.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
Wichita is the city I was born in and love. I walked to Hyde, Robinson and East. I was a violinist and this grew into a love for music and performing arts. The variety of entertainment in Wichita offers something for everyone. My husband and I enjoy baseball games at the River Stadium, biking, MTW, WSO, Zoo, and Intrust Arena concerts. Unique architecture, Keeper, and Joan of Arc statue are my favorites. I love Wichita because of what our citizens have achieved, what is ahead for our future. ‘Ad astra per aspera’
Julie Rose Stroud
Age: 32
Position: Environmental health manager
Past: City of Wichita drinking water laboratory technician, mail carrier
Education: Wichita State University
Party: Unaffiliated
Phone: 316-204-8786
Email: julierosestroud@gmail.com
Website: julierosestroud.com/mayor/
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
Environmental health and safety is my top priority and I would address it by establishing an environmental health and safety department that collaborates with the state and county. The environmental portion would encompass sustainability.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
Criminal Justice with a strong emphasis on juvenile justice. There needs to be more programs centered on rehabilitation for juveniles.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
I have local, state and federal government experience. I will do what it takes and stand up for what is right. I’ve lobbied on Capitol Hill for water infrastructure funding which helped establish the new water treatment plant for the City of Wichita. I’ve lobbied for the 2018 Farm Bill which helped bring hemp to Kansas. Public health and safety is important and I’ve made a career out of it. I am a protector. I will go after the many environmental and public health and federal grants.
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
Public health and safety would be top priority and paid for by federal grants and taxes from medical and recreational cannabis.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
I grew up in the heart of Wichita. I could walk to the river in less than a minute and be in Delano or old town in under 5 min by car. I seen a lot of poverty growing up and although throughout the years it’s increased, the area is full of people with a lot of culture, heart and passion. My favorite part of Wichita is the people who live here, especially those right in the heart of Wichita. I see you.
Brandon Whipple
Age: 41
Position: Mayor
Past: Kansas House of Representatives, lecturer Wichita State University
Education: Wichita State University, Franklin Pierce University
Party: Democratic
Phone: 316-290-9447
Email: campaign@votewhipple.com
Website: www.votewhipple.com
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
My top priority is to ensure the people of Wichita have a genuine voice in their local government. By empowering individuals, we create public trust and are held accountable to the taxpayers, ensuring we’re focused on issues that matter most to our neighbors. As Mayor, I focus on creating spaces where people feel comfortable talking about their experiences and use that dialog to identify problems so together we find solutions. The goal is to ensure city services work well for all of Wichita.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
As Mayor, we must continue to build a safer city. This includes rebuilding trust, investing in programs that address youth violence, domestic violence, and human trafficking, and embracing best practices for addressing mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness. I’m proud to say we’ve invested a record amount in public safety and social services. We now have more firefighters and police officers than we did before I was elected, and we’re paying them better than at any time in our city’s history.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
My vision is to create opportunities for Wichita. As Mayor, I managed the worst economic and public health crisis we have seen in a lifetime. Since then, we recovered from COVID, and held the line on taxes while investing record amounts in police, fire, public works, and social services. Wichita now leads the state in economic growth, with unemployment at historic lows and new industries relocating to diversify our economy. Our budget is balanced, and we set aside a record $20M in our emergency fund.
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
Our current transit system needs to be modernized so that it meets the expectations and needs of a city our size. Over the next four years, I plan to create a regional transportation system, collaborating with public and private sector partners to revitalize our outdated system and effectively serve our growing community. We have proven over the years that we can accomplish big goals, even if others in the past could not. Wichita is growing, and we need a strong, efficient public transit system.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
When I moved to Wichita 20 years ago for a year-long service mission, I was blown away by the amount of opportunity. Because of the low cost of living and affordable tuition, I transferred to Wichita State and became the first in my family to graduate college and, later, the first in my family to own a home. Wichita is a community where if you work hard, you can achieve your dreams. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on ways to grow opportunities for others so they can achieve their dreams here in Wichita.
Lily Wu
Age: 38
Position: Former television news reporter
Past: KWCH, KAKE
Education: University of Hong Kong, Wichita State
Party: Libertarian
Phone: 316-302-5585
Email: info@lilywuformayor.com
Website: lilywuformayor.com
What is your top priority and what specifically would you do to address it?
Wichitans are dissatisfied with the status quo and the lack of priority on the health and safety of our community. With nearly 100 vacant police officer positions, we must ensure law enforcement, first responders, and city services are fully staffed so they can connect with the community and serve more effectively. As mayor, I’ll bolster public safety recruitment and retention efforts and ensure they have the respect and resources necessary to keep Wichita families safe.
What other issue do you feel strongly about?
Strengthening our economy starts with ensuring we’re supporting our existing small and large businesses, creating a future-ready workforce, and emphasizing high-paying jobs. As mayor, I’ll act as an ambassador for our city cultivating relationships and promoting regional competitiveness that will attract new industry, investment, and people. We’ll get back to the basics of local government, prioritize responsibly, and put Wichita in the best possible position to succeed.
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
I’m the political outsider who will bring a new energy and fresh perspective. It’s time to get back to the basics and put results over politics so we can meet the challenges of tomorrow and improve the lives of every Wichitan. As mayor, I’ll maintain focus on ensuring public safety, strengthening our economy, restoring trust in city hall, and building a united community. I’ll work with anyone who wants to improve our city, bring our community together, find common ground, and make Wichita proud.
Is there a particular city service that you think needs more resources? If so, how would you pay for that?
To make Wichita one of the best cities to start and grow a business, our city must be safe (including filling police vacancies and tackling homelessness). I’ll restore the relationship between the mayor’s office and Wichita Police Department and ensure they have the respect and resources necessary to keep us safe. I’m opposed to tax increases on working families, so we must analyze current spending, prioritize, and identify opportunities for efficiency, partnership, and/or reallocation.
What do you love about Wichita, and why?
My heritage is Chinese, I was born in Guatemala, but I was made in Wichita. I’m grateful for mentors who have invested in helping me realize the American Dream. From an 8-year-old immigrant who only spoke Spanish and Chinese to a 12-year career telling your stories as a local reporter, you’ve helped me grow into a leader, life-long learner, and listener for our community. I love Wichita for what it is, but also what it can be. As a proud Wichitan, I hope to earn your vote on August 1st.
More on the mayor’s race
Legalize or criminalize? Wichita mayoral candidates split on marijuana reform
Transgender rights take center stage in Wichita mayor’s race. Where do candidates stand?
Whipple launched his re-election campaign with faulty crime stats. How did that happen?
Mayoral candidates call for better communication, free cancer screenings at polluted site
Who’s running for mayor in Wichita? Here’s an up-to-date list of candidates
This story was originally published July 18, 2023 at 2:40 PM.