As we approach the November 4th election, I want to take a moment to share where I stand — directly and plainly.
Many in our community have made it clear that they’re ready for change. I believe this election gives Salina a real opportunity to make that happen. Together with Keith Cooper and Johnnie Keller, we represent three fresh faces who bring different experiences, independent thinking, and a shared commitment to what’s best for Salina.
Keith is a 39-year-old, self-employed craftsman and carpenter, raising a family here and dealing firsthand with the real challenges of making ends meet. Johnnie is a retired military veteran and former college instructor who, along with his wife, proudly calls Salina home. And I’m Doug Rempp, known by many as “Mr. McDonald’s” after more than 20 years in that business. My wife and I have lived here since 1995. We’ve raised our family here, built businesses here, and never stopped believing in this city’s potential.
We don’t agree on every single issue — and that’s healthy. But we share a common goal: a stronger, more transparent, and fiscally responsible Salina.
The Cozy Lawsuit
Let’s be honest — this lawsuit should have been over long ago. We all believe it never should have gone this far. It’s time to find a solution and stop sending taxpayer dollars to attorneys in Colorado. That money should be working for Salina, not leaving it.
The River Renewal Project
We all agree the river needs to be cleaned up. Keith wants to fish along it. I’d like to see families walking, kayaking, and enjoying it. It’s a big project — maybe one of the biggest we’ll ever take on — and yes, it comes with real costs. Done right, it could transform the city. But it must be measured, methodical, and transparent. People deserve to see what’s happening and where the money’s going.
The Mall Redevelopment
We’ve all seen what’s been proposed, and like you, I’d like to see our mall upgraded. But we have to protect Salina’s interests. I’d want to see at least four private dollars for every public dollar invested. Developers from outside Salina need to have a real stake — not just a short-term profit. I also want to be sure we’re not poaching existing local businesses or putting current employers in a position where they feel pushed out. Growth shouldn’t come at the expense of the people who’ve already invested here.
Downtown Growth and the Hotel Project
The new hotel and parking garage downtown could be a strong addition. If the owners of Homewood Suites believe there’s enough demand to open another hotel a couple hundred yards away, I’m inclined to trust their business sense. The hotel gets land, the city gains a 100-plus-space parking garage, and we turn a former parking lot into new tax revenue. That’s a win-win. We just need a solid plan to help nearby businesses that may temporarily lose parking during construction.
Fiscal Responsibility
I’ve always believed in common sense and accountability. The city’s progress downtown is undeniable — Salina’s no longer the quiet place it once was, and that’s a good thing. But with every new investment, we need to make sure taxpayers’ money is treated with the same care we give our own. If a commissioner wouldn’t spend their personal money on it, they shouldn’t spend yours.
We all benefit from a prosperous, growing Salina. We just need leadership that listens, uses good judgment, and spends wisely.
On November 4th, you’ll have many choices. If you’re happy with how things are, then we may not be your pick. But if you want fresh leadership, open communication, and common-sense decision-making, I’d be honored to have your vote — along with Keith Cooper and Johnnie Keller.
Together, we can keep Salina moving forward — responsibly.
Doug Rempp
Candidate for Salina City Commission
“Common Sense. Fiscal Responsibility. Local Leadership.”
Paid for by Doug Rempp for City Commission
