Mayors of Main Street
Welcome to Mayors of Main Street—the podcast that delves into the heart of American communities by exploring the experiences and insights of some of the longest-serving mayors in the country. Hosted by Mayor Kristine Lott, this podcast brings you compelling stories of public service, community challenges, and the triumphs that define local leadership.
Mayor Kristine Lott, the first woman to hold the mayoral office in Winooski, Vermont, is no stranger to community engagement and leadership. Her journey into local politics began in 2017 when she was appointed to the Housing Commission for Winooski. In 2018, she took a bold step by running for a City Council seat, which she won and served with distinction. By January 2019, the incumbent mayor's resignation paved the way for her to run for mayor, and she was elected on March 5, 2019, with a platform centered on financial sustainability, housing affordability, and active community involvement. Since then, she has been re-elected and continues to serve her community with vigor and vision.
Throughout her tenure, Mayor Lott has made significant strides in formalizing and expanding community engagement, improving local ordinances to boost voting participation and housing affordability, and steering through key infrastructure projects despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Notable projects under her leadership include the revitalization of Main Street, the rehabilitation of a community pool, and the development of a municipal parking garage, hotel, and workforce housing.
Born in Southwest Michigan, Mayor Lott earned a bachelor's degree from Michigan State University. In 2009, she moved to Vermont, where she now resides with her husband, a lifelong Winooski resident. Balancing her mayoral duties with her role as Director of Operations for an education non-profit, she embodies dedication and resilience.
Join Mayor Kristine Lott on Mayors of Main Street as she interviews fellow mayors delving into their personal journeys, the issues they face, and the impactful decisions they make every day. Each episode provides an in-depth look at the unique challenges and rewards of leading a community, offering herself and listeners valuable insights and inspiration from the frontlines of local governance.
Mayors of Main Street
Mayor John Evans of Garden City, Idaho
In this episode of "Mayors of Main Street," we have the pleasure of speaking with Mayor John Evans of Garden City, Idaho. The conversation delves into the unique characteristics and the promising future of Garden City, a Boise-border town with a rich and colorful history. That history includes a short period where revenue from town’s well-run gambling houses paid for a new water system, a city hall, a park and much more. Mayor Evans explains how Chinese immigrants were part of the town’s agricultural roots and the naming of its main drag, Chinden Boulevard. Mayor Evans shares his people-centered approach, and how strong collaboration contributes to the success of his city. His insights on growth and tackling issues like development and upgrading an aging infrastructure with a nonpartisan approach provide a refreshing lens on community development and problem solving.
Mayor Evans is approaching the end of over three decades of public service, having announced he will not be seeking re-election at the end of his term. He reflects on his personal connection to Garden City, his contributions to the successful trajectory it is on, and the exciting developments that lie ahead. His gratitude and enthusiasm for service are palpable. Mayor Evans is the perfect ambassador for his town, promoting Garden City’s many breweries and wine tasting rooms. This episode is a testament to the dedication of local leaders in fostering vibrant, thriving communities.