Star Says Funkhouser in it to Win It

Lynn Horsley (The Kansas City Star) – Kansas City Mayor Mark Funkhouser formally kicked off his re-election campaign today, flanked by signs bearing his slogan: “Your money, your voice, your mayor.”
Funkhouser said he ran four years ago on a platform of change and challenging the power elites, and that’s as true today as it was then. (Even though he’s now the incumbent, so true change would mean a new and different mayor).
He acknowledged there have been plenty of fights with his council colleagues but “fighting is worth it.” He claimed credit for improving the city’s fiscal and debt situation, reining in sweetheart TIF deals, and refocusing attention on basic services, like removing the “metal plates” from the streets. He said he will continue to push for a city that works for ordinary, average citizens.


Even though Funkhouser’s wife, Gloria Squitiro, has sometimes been a lightning rod for criticism, Funkhouser said she successfully ran his election campaign four years ago and he’s confident she’ll do it again. As to the role she would play in his second term, he said, “”We are a team.” He said speculation about Gloria’s role is “irrelevant” to the work that matters in the mayor’s office, and he believes voters will want to continue the direction he has set for the city.
Funkhouser is challenged by City Councilwoman Deb Hermann, attorneys Mike Burke and Sly James, and former City Councilman Jim Rowland. He trails them in fund-raising, but said that’s just because he’s been so focused on the job of mayor that he hasn’t yet concentrated on raising money. He said he will devote the attention to the campaign that’s needed and “We will have enough money to win.”