Porter: Create opportunities for all residents

Johnson County, my name is Royceann Porter, and I'm asking for your vote on Tuesday.

Dec. 18 is a special election because of the death of my friend Johnson County Supervisor Kurt Friese. Kurt was a dedicated supervisor and a good man, and we miss him a lot. It will be my honor to continue his fight for a healthy, strong, and just Johnson County.

Why vote for me? I am a recognized community leader devoted to improving the lives of my neighbors. I have spent my own life advocating for mental health services, affordable housing, veterans, worker's rights, restorative justice and opportunities for youth.

For decades, I have worked alongside city and county leaders to craft policies and create new opportunities for our community. I am the candidate who can work with the current board to continue moving Johnson County in the right direction. I've been doing this work already. Now I can work even harder for you as a Johnson County supervisor.

I am a social worker and an organizer, the kind of person who sees a need and jumps in to collaborate and get things accomplished. We need elected officials who are driven by building up people and programs. I am that candidate.

My election to the Johnson County Board of Supervisors also will be a historic win for our community. Did you know that I will be the first person of color ever elected to a countywide office in Johnson County? I am proud to represent every single person in Johnson County, and I'm proud to be the person who can accomplish this moment for us.

If you need something from your county supervisors - if you have an issue or concern, if you see an unmet need, if you want me to learn more about the things that are important to you - I want to hear from you, Johnson County! Let's win together on Dec. 18.

' Royceann Porter is a Democratic candidate for Johnson County supervisor.