A familiar name, but a new face, is on the Emporia City Commission ballot for the 2025 election cycle.
Denise Gilligan has officially put her name forward for election filing with the Lyon County Clerk’s office Thursday. While this is the first time Gilligan has filed for election, it is not the first time she has put her name forth for appointment to the board as she was one of eight individuals to put forth her name to fill the vacancy left by former commissioner Rob Gilligan, her brother, when he stepped down to take over as President and CEO of the Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Chamber of Commerce in 2022.
That appointment ultimately went to now Mayor Erren Harter. Looking ahead to the coming election, Gilligan says she feels like she is in a “good position” to step up and “represent the will of the community” in the decision-making process.
When it comes to the skill set she believes would make her an ideal candidate and commissioner, if elected, Gilligan says she is “well read” and always seeking a full understanding of any topic or issue that she comes across.
Gilligan now joins current Emporia Metropolitan Planning Commission Vice-Chair Tammi Ogle, former planning commissioner Monica Duncan, Kurt Steinkhuler, Aaron Larson and incumbent Tyler Curtis on the ballot. Incumbent Jamie Sauder has not announced his re-election plans, while Commissioner Susan Brinkman announced earlier this year that she will not seek a third term in office.
The candidate filing and withdrawal deadline is noon on June 2. The primary election, if needed, is Aug. 5. The general election is Nov. 4. Positions for mayor, City Council, City Commission and school board are on this year’s ballot.
