Cody Schmidt announced his write-in candidacy for the Great Bend City Mayor’s position on June 19.

He and his wife Kami have been lifelong residents of Great Bend. They have two children, Carter and Emma Schmidt.

Schmidt said the City of Great Bend deserves a mayor who will work with the city council to get things accomplished. He is running to help give a voice for the future of the city and help Great Bend stay on the right track for growth. 

Employed as the Director of Transportation and Grounds for USD 428, Schmidt said he understands the how blue-collar jobs drive the economy in rural cities like Great Bend.  There should be a constant effort to bring in new businesses and create as many jobs as possible. Schmidt also believes there should be an effort to keep businesses already established in Great Bend up and running. “Shopping local and keeping our tax dollars here in Great Bend is what drives our economy,” he said.

“I consider myself a people person who will enjoy getting to know and visiting with Great Bend residents and I will try to understand their wants, needs and concerns for our city.  I am simply running for this seat out of a sense of duty and civil service to help make Great Bend a better place for both current and future residents and families.”

A registered Republican, this is Schmidt’s first time running for public office.  He is a volunteer football and youth baseball coach for Great Bend.