1. What motivated you to run for City Council?
Jill Grunwald: As a resident of Long Grove for more than 45 years, I have watched our town experience many positive successes and a few challenges that leave room for improvement. These are the reasons that give me the desire to help direct Long Grove and ensure it remains a welcoming place to live.
Amy Shannon: Long Grove is my home, and I care deeply about its future. I’m running to help our town grow while preserving the small-town charm we love. By welcoming new homes, we can strengthen our tax base and support vital local services. My goal is to ensure Long Grove remains a safe and vibrant community where every resident feels valued and at home.
Ryan Christensen: I was motivated to run for City Council four years ago because of the people of Long Grove, and that is still my motivation for the next term. Knowing that we're having transparent discussions that lead to community improvements is what I most enjoy.
2. What relevant experience in leadership will you bring to the council?
Grunwald: My husband Dale and I have owned and operated our businesses for over 40 years, I have firsthand experience with planning, budgeting and working with people. I have also served as a 4-H Club leader for 8 years, past and present Long Grove Park Board member, and currently serve on the boards of Parkview Lutheran Church, Long Grove Lions, Long Grove Civic League and North Scott Rotary. I have worked with many different people of all ages and backgrounds. I feel my past and present experiences would be an asset to the Long Grove City Council.
Shannon: I’ve volunteered with the Long Grove Fire Department for 13 years and Medic EMS for 9. These experiences have provided me with insights into our community's needs and policies. Serving on various committees has deepened my understanding of effective collaboration. I bring a strong, service-focused perspective rooted in my emergency services experience, which I believe will be valuable to the council.
Christensen: I would have to say that the most relevant experience I offer is my four years on the council. Nothing better prepares a person to serve on the City Council other than past experience.
3. What is the most pressing challenge now facing Long Grove?
Grunwald: Long Grove has long been known for its very rusty, hard water with a noticeable odor. The proposed new water treatment project is now moving forward and is a much-needed step toward solving this problem. The city must ensure clean fresh water for all its residents at a cost that is reasonable for all. I would also like to see that property taxes are kept affordable for everyone, especially our fixed-income long-term residents.
Shannon: The biggest challenge for Long Grove is balancing growth with preserving our unique characteristics. While new homes can enhance our tax base and services, it's essential that we engage residents for their input. I intend to ensure that council decisions reflect our community values, prioritizing safety and the welcoming atmosphere that makes Long Grove special.
Christensen: The most pressing issue that I see in the next term is figuring out how Long Grove is going to grow in the future. There are ideas and there is input that has been provided, but I think the issue of growth (or no growth) will be of the utmost focus in the next term.
4. What other issues or goals would you hope to see city council address?
Grunwald: I feel Long Grove needs to grow at a steady and deliberate pace. Financial responsibility and controlled spending are a must to maintain our community’s character. For a small-town Long Grove often feels divided into several small pocket neighborhoods that don’t seem to be connected to each other. Encouraging more resident involvement and opportunities to connect will help bring back the true small-town Iowa spirit, where neighbors know and support each other. Also, making our town more walkable for all and safer for children to get to and from school would help. More citizen involvement would be great.
Shannon: I’d like to see a greater focus on recreation and accessibility, such as creating inclusive playgrounds at the Community Building and Schulz Park. Building community pride through engaging events is also crucial. Additionally, I believe we should establish a long-term plan for staffing and ordinance enforcement to ensure our town remains safe and well-managed for the future.
Christensen: I would like to see the council focus on the future of public safety and law enforcement coverage in Long Grove. Long Grove is a safe community, but making sure public safety grows with our community is important.