Arnel Culum
Grayson Stone is not just another name on the ballot; he’s a native son of Twin Falls, deeply rooted in the community’s history and its future. Born and raised in Twin Falls, Grayson has a profound connection to the city and its residents. He fondly recalls his upbringing in the city, mentioning his parents, and even takes a moment to wish his mother a happy birthday.
Grayson’s journey took him from Twin Falls to Wabash College on a wrestling scholarship. From there, he ventured to the University of Idaho and then decided to explore life beyond his roots. This exploration led him to Carlsbad, New Mexico, where he served as a firefighter, paramedic, and rescue diver. While he loved his job in New Mexico, the call of home was strong. After meeting his wife and deciding where they wanted to raise their family, Twin Falls was the obvious choice. Grayson emphasizes the transformation Twin Falls has undergone over the years, making it a place where young families, like his own, would want to return and settle down.
His campaign revolves around a simple yet powerful theme: “Keeping the momentum going.” Grayson acknowledges the growth and progress Twin Falls has experienced over the past decade and aims to continue this trajectory. However, he is also acutely aware of the challenges that come with growth. He categorizes these challenges under what he terms as “FIT” – First Responders, Infrastructure, and Transportation.
- First Responders: Grayson recognizes the need for expansion in the police and fire departments. He commends the recent efforts, such as the opening of Station two, the first station owned since the 1970s.
- Infrastructure: As Twin Falls grows, so does the need for robust infrastructure. Grayson highlights areas where the city can expand, such as the southwest, despite its sloping issues and the presence of Rock Creek. He mentions the potential need for a significant investment in infrastructure, especially from Muni to Orchard.
- Transportation: The topic of a third bridge is on everyone’s mind, and Grayson believes the city of Twin Falls needs to play a pivotal role in these discussions. He stresses the importance of positive advocacy for the bridge’s placement, considering the potential traffic flow challenges it might introduce.
When asked about specific city issues, Grayson approaches them with a practical mindset. On the topic of the dog park, he believes in assessing the needs and budget before making decisions. He acknowledges the current challenges with the park’s design and mud but emphasizes the need to prioritize based on budgetary constraints.
Graffiti in city parks is another concern. Grayson appreciates the efforts already in place to combat this issue and believes in leveraging community partnerships to address such challenges. He suggests that many solutions can be manpower and time-based, indicating a collaborative approach might be more effective than merely throwing money at the problem.
On the topic of city transparency, Grayson feels the city is doing well in being open and transparent about its actions and decisions.
In conclusion, Grayson Stone presents himself as a candidate deeply invested in Twin Falls’ growth and prosperity. His campaign is rooted in practicality, community collaboration, and a clear vision for the city’s future. As a native son returning to raise his family, Grayson’s commitment to Twin Falls is undeniable. He represents a blend of respect for the city’s history and an eagerness to embrace its future.
