All five candidates for Solon City Council were invited to submit up to 350 words introducing themselves and making their request for your vote next Tuesday, Nov. 4. The following are their submissions, as received.
Greg Morris
It is with great comfort that I enter into Solon City Council election on November 4th.
I’ve been a part of the Solon community for over 54 years. Being a member of the city council has always interested me. I feel I now have the time to devote to the city council and its business.
Currently, I’m a member of the Solon Volunteer Fire Department and have been active for over 35 years. I’m the alternate representative for the Johnson County Emergency Management Commission for the city. I also serve on the Board of Adjustment for the city. I’m also a member of the Solon Community Housing Corporation and the Solon Area Community Foundation.
In the past I’ve served on the Solon Beef Days Committee and helped with the Solon High School Stadium Project. Being involved in the community in a variety of ways is important to me. I believe these experiences will make me a good council member.
Being a part of Solon and it’s future is important to me. I look forward to seeing the city grow in the right way and would appreciate your vote on November 4th.
Thank you
Greg Morris
Lauren Whitehead
I’m running for re-election to the Solon City Council because I love this community — its people, its promise, and its strong sense of connection. Over the past eight years, I’ve worked to bring communication, collaboration, and common-sense problem-solving to City Hall. With your support, I’d like to continue that work.
Solon has grown and changed dramatically during my time on council. I’ve helped guide our community through major investments in wastewater treatment, water planning, and public spaces. These aren’t easy or glamorous topics — but they’re the foundation of a healthy, sustainable city. I believe in facing big challenges with clarity, compassion, and practicality.
As Solon moves into its next chapter, we need steady leadership that understands both our history and our future. If re-elected, my priorities will include:
• Smart Growth: Planning housing that fits Solon’s character and keeps it attainable for families and seniors alike.
• Water and Infrastructure: Securing long-term, regional solutions that protect our resources and relieve pressure on Solon taxpayers.
• Community Spaces: Continuing to push for a community center and dedicated spaces that serve all ages.
• Transparency and Accessibility: Making sure residents can easily access information and feel heard by city leadership.
I believe good governance starts with listening. I answer every email, call, and message, and I’ll always take time to explain decisions and invite feedback. Even when we disagree, I value respectful dialogue and thoughtful compromise.
With Councilor Steve Duncan’s retirement, I would be the senior-most member of the council. I take that responsibility seriously. My experience, relationships, and deep commitment to Solon will help us navigate what comes next.
Thank you for the privilege of serving. I hope to continue being a steady, informed, and compassionate voice for Solon’s future.
Lauren Whitehead
Candidate for Re-Election, Solon City Council
Cole Gabriel
Hello, I’m Cole Gabriel, and I’m a person who loves the City of Solon.
Solon has been my home for over ten years; it’s the first place that has felt like home since I left the Des Moines area, where I grew up. The town slogan “A Place to Put Down Roots” has become my reality and I couldn’t be more grateful.
I’ve had the distinct privilege of serving our community on the Solon City Council for the past four years. An out-ofthe- blue write-in campaign, where the residents gave me the chance to serve our community, led to an unbelievable journey full of opportunities, challenges, and successes. It has been a privilege that I do not take for granted, and one that I hope to continue for the next four years. So, what has happened over these past four years during my first term and what do I hope to accomplish if you re-elect me to serve?
During my first term:
• Completion of our new Fire Station
• Advocated for pro-rated benefits for Solon’s part-time city employees
• Opening of the Sheriff Substation
• Five-year contract with Sheriff’s Office
• City Library Liaison for four years
• Water Treatment Plant plan’s steady progress
• Finance Committee: Assistance to the Solon Hardware store
• Building & Growth Committee: Preparing for next stage of downtown development If re-elected my priorities would be:
• Stronger coordination between the City and Solon’s amazing Senior support groups
• Pro-rated benefits for Solon’s part-time city employees
• Improved transparency with release of the full agenda to the public at least 24 hours prior to City Council meetings
• Completion of the Water Treatment Plant and careful management of Solon’s water resources
• Building of a new Community Center
• Trail and City signage to direct tourism directly to Solon businesses
• Managing growth to stay within our infrastructure limits while maintaining our close-knit community
I believe in this community and would be proud to continue serving you. I am asking for your vote on or before the Solon City Elections on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
Sincerely,
Cole Gabriel
https://www.facebook.com/ColeGabrielforSolon
Tim Gordon
Hello friends and neighbors!
My name is Tim Gordon, and I am hoping to earn your trust and vote in the upcoming election for City Council.
I’ve been a resident of Solon since 2001 and have seen our little town grow up into something that we can certainly be proud to call home! I have deep roots in the community and a personal stake in its future. I have raised two teenage daughters here, which certainly gave me a firsthand look at the needs of families, schools and local infrastructure.
My commitment to service in Solon is evident through volunteer work. I have been an active member of the Solon Beef Days Committee, helping organize the community’s most cherished event. Also, as a member and former president of the Solon Centennial Lions Club, I have helped contribute to numerous initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Solon from our youth programs to our beloved senior community.
I also serve on the Solon Planning and Zoning Commission, where I have gained valuable insight into the city’s growth and development. My experience on the commission has honed an ability to balance progress with the preservation of Solon’s unique character, ensuring sustainable and thoughtful growth.
My main goal as a council member is certainly balanced growth that maintains the city’s small town character, while addressing needs like housing, parks, and public services.
Attendance is critical in order to be a voice representing the people. A council member leaving their seat at the table empty for the majority of meetings is not acceptable. A current incumbent has missed the equivalent of an ENTIRE YEARS worth of meetings THIS TERM! When they do attend, they can be found online more often than in the room. I WILL BE PRESENT TO REPRESENT YOU!
I believe that being in Solon for the last 24 years reflects my unwavering dedication to this town and to those who call it home. Together we can make Solon feel small again! I encourage everyone to get out on November 4th and VOTE for the change that our town deserves!
#voteforgordo
Matt Macke
Hello neighbors and friends,
My name is Matt Macke and I would like to be your next Solon City Councilor. I would like your vote on November 4th.
My family and I have lived in Solon for over a decade and love to call Solon our home.
I work full time as a Legal and Compliance Investigator, and have been a Police Officer for thirteen years in small towns like Solon.
Prior to that I served in the United States Army for nine years before being wounded in Afghanistan that would end my service.
My experience has taught me to have a straightforward leadership style centered on the focus of direct action and honesty. I have been a civil servant for a combined total of twenty-three years and it would be an honor to keep serving you if elected.
On November 4th, I’m asking for your support to represent this great community, and the issues that are important to you. Please reach out to discuss topics of importance. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Matt Macke
Candidate for Solon City Council
