Key Issues

Public Safety

Chesterfield is committed to maintaining a well-resourced, right-sized police department that prioritizes community safety. From vacation checks to implementing smart “no chase” policies that protect lives, our police force is dedicated to serving residents effectively and responsibly. As our community grows, the department will thoughtfully expand to meet evolving needs. 

Student safety is one of Dan’s top priorities. He played a key role in securing city funding for resource officers in elementary schools, ensuring young students are protected even when district budgets could only support secondary schools.

Financial Strength

For 32 years, Dan has worked diligently to ensure Chesterfield operates without a Chesterfield City property tax while maintaining a balanced budget—a policy he remains committed to as mayor.

When funds were required for specific projects, Dan prioritized fiscal responsibility, ensuring minor assessments were used efficiently, met their intended purpose, and were retired on time as promised.

Thanks to Dan’s leadership and oversight, Chesterfield is one of the few Missouri municipalities to earn Moody’s coveted Triple Aaa rating. His commitment to maintaining a 40% financial reserve and a proactive five-year financial forecast has been instrumental in securing the city’s economic stability.

Thoughtful Economic Development

As the owner of two manufacturing businesses with national and international reach and a background in engineering, Dan brings a unique and multifaceted perspective to economic development. His ability to seamlessly navigate global, local, and infrastructure-specific challenges sets him apart as a leader.

Dan understands Chesterfield’s strategic advantages, including the Spirit of St. Louis Airport, the Missouri River, and Interstate 64/Highway 40. He recognizes their role in supporting existing AgTech corporations and their potential to attract major ventures like Gateway Studios’ significant expansion in Chesterfield.

Locally, Dan’s engineering expertise has been instrumental in shaping the city’s Access Management policies, which govern traffic flow, easements, safety, and development ordinances. These policies ensure that every project—from The District to Central Park—enhances daily life for Chesterfield residents, making the city more accessible, safe, and efficient.

Keeping Chesterfield Green

Growing up in the outdoors, Dan deeply values the restorative power of nature and its immense benefits for Chesterfield residents.

Dan played a key role in launching the city’s park system, working tirelessly to acquire land and support the creation of Central Park. Today, Central Park’s 39 acres are part of Chesterfield’s expansive network of over 500 park acres.

Parks often emerge through collaboration. In 2017, a mother in Dan’s ward identified a potential site for a new park. With her citizen group, Dan partnered her citizens group, Logan University, and City Parks to transform the land into Logan Park, a treasured space for local families.

One of the best ways to experience Chesterfield’s natural beauty is through its trail system. Dan not only championed the creation of these trails but also applied his engineering expertise to connect them across neighborhoods. Today, cyclists, runners, and walkers enjoy more than 25 miles of interconnected trails. 

Dan excels at listening to residents and turning their ideas into solutions. This is evident in his work with the Chesterfield Citizens Environmental Advisory Committee (CCEAC), which began with the creation of a city recycling program. That success laid the groundwork for CCEAC’s efforts to get Chesterfield’s designation as a Tree City and certification as a National Wildlife Federation Community Wildlife Habitat—one of only two in Missouri.

Access to a World Class Education

As the father of two Parkway graduates, Dan understands the transformative impact of quality education on families and communities. His commitment to maintaining strong property values and a stable tax base ensures Chesterfield schools have the resources to uphold the highest educational standards.

However, a world-class education means little if students don’t feel safe. Student safety is one of Dan’s top priorities. He played a pivotal role in securing city funding for resource officers in elementary schools, stepping in when district budgets could only support secondary schools.

Arts and Culture: A Thriving Community

Arts and culture are vital to Chesterfield’s identity, and Dan has been instrumental in creating spaces where they flourish. His leadership has helped establish venues and opportunities that bring people together, celebrate creativity, and enhance the city’s appeal.

Dan’s efforts on Central Park paved the way for the Chesterfield Amphitheatre, a beloved venue where thousands gather each year for free concerts, performances, and community events. This vibrant space has become a cornerstone of cultural life in Chesterfield, fostering a sense of connection and joy.

As head of the Planning and Zoning Committee, Dan played a key role in the development of The District, a dynamic entertainment hub that attracts nationally acclaimed artists and provides a lively setting for families and friends to enjoy live music, dining, and socializing.