About us
"From Learning to Earning: Building a Stronger City Together"
My campaign is about creating a virtuous cycle where a strong education system leads to a thriving local economy, and a robust economy in turn supports better schools and a more connected community. We'll invest in people, not just projects.
Key Policy Pillars
The campaign's platform is built on three interconnected pillars.
1. Education: The Foundation for Opportunity
We believe that a well-educated workforce is the engine of a strong economy. Our focus will be on ensuring our schools prepare students for success in college or a career.
Policy Initiatives:
Career and Technical Education (CTE): Partner with local high schools and community colleges to expand CTE programs. This includes vocational training in high-demand fields like skilled trades, technology, and healthcare.
Mentorship Programs: Create city-sponsored mentorship programs that connect students with local professionals and small business owners. This provides real-world learning and career guidance.
Literacy & Early Childhood Education: Advocate for increased funding for early childhood education and literacy programs to ensure every child starts school with a strong foundation.
2. Small Business: Fueling the Local Economy
Small businesses are the heart of our community. We'll create an environment where they can thrive, providing jobs and keeping money circulating locally.
Policy Initiatives:
"Shop Local" Incentives: Launch a city-wide campaign encouraging residents to support local businesses. This could include a digital loyalty program that offers rewards for shopping at participating stores.
Small Business Support Hub: Establish a central resource hub to help new and existing small businesses navigate city regulations, apply for grants, and access business development resources. This hub would also connect small businesses with the city's new mentorship programs.
Tax Incentives: Explore targeted tax incentives for small businesses that hire local residents, offer internships to high school students, or revitalize vacant storefronts.
3. Infrastructure & Community: Connecting Our City
Modern infrastructure is essential for both business and daily life. We'll invest in projects that improve connectivity and bring people together.
Policy Initiatives:
Digital Infrastructure: Partner with providers to expand high-speed internet access throughout the city, especially in underserved neighborhoods. This is crucial for remote work, education, and small business operations.
Walkable & Bikeable Neighborhoods: Invest in creating safe, well-lit sidewalks, bike lanes, and green spaces. This makes our city more appealing to residents and customers and improves overall quality of life.
Community Spaces: Renovate and revitalize public spaces like parks, community centers, and libraries. These are crucial meeting places where people can connect, learn, and relax. Consider a program to fund community gardens or art installations.
Bringing It All Together: A Unified Vision
This campaign isn't about isolated issues; it's about a cohesive strategy. We'll explain to voters that by investing in education, we create the talent pool that small businesses need to grow. By supporting small businesses, we create local jobs and generate tax revenue. And by improving our infrastructure, we make our city a better place to live, work, and learn.
This vision provides a clear, actionable plan that voters can get behind.
Meet Kelly Martin: A Champion for Waterloo
Born and raised in Waterloo, Kelly Martin has a deep and abiding love for his hometown. Alongside his wife, Carrie, he has been a dedicated part of the community, raising three daughters and one son. Now, they are fortunate to watch their grandchildren grow up in the same city they call home. Kelly’s roots in Waterloo run deep, and his commitment to its future is personal.
For years, Kelly has dedicated his professional life to empowering the next generation of Waterloo’s workforce. As the Work-Based Learning Coordinator for Waterloo Community Schools, he connects students with local businesses, helping them discover their career paths and find meaningful opportunities right here in their community. This role has given him a unique perspective on the needs of both students and employers, and has allowed him to build strong relationships throughout Waterloo's business community.
Kelly's passion for service extends well beyond his professional life. He is an active member of the Waterloo Exchange Club, has volunteered his time with the Iowa Irish Fest, and supported numerous other local organizations. He currently serves on the Midwest Iowa 7V7 Board of Directors and is the President of the Shadow Creek Home Owners Association, consistently working to improve the quality of life in his neighborhood.
It is this lifelong commitment to community that has motivated Kelly to run for City Council. He believes that a stronger, more connected city is possible, and he is driven by a passion to address the issues that matter most to families and businesses. As your next City Council member, Kelly will be a champion for:
- Education: The Foundation for Opportunity. He will work to ensure our schools receive the resources they need to provide a high-quality education for every child, preparing the next generation for success.
- Small Business: Fueling the Local Economy. He'll advocate for policies that support local entrepreneurs and help our small businesses create jobs and vibrant downtowns.
- Infrastructure & Community: Connecting Our City. He is dedicated to improving our roads, public spaces, and community programs that not only enhance our quality of life but also foster a strong sense of community.
Kelly Martin is committed to building a better future for Waterloo. With your support, he will bring his experience and dedication to City Council to ensure our city thrives for generations to come.