Voters will pick Sedalia’s Mayor in the April 7 municipal election.
Incumbent Andrew Dawson and newcomer Traves Williams are running for the position.
The seat is a four-year term.
The Democrat reached out to Williams, but did not receive a response at the time of press. Community members can find a profile of Williams from when he first announced his intent to run for office online at https://www.sedaliademocrat.com/detail.html?sub_id=185b95e4f7
Why are you running for office?
Dawson: I am running for office because I care deeply about Sedalia and the people who call it home. This is where I have built my life and raised my family. I believe local government should focus on solving real problems and improving daily life. Over the past several years, I have worked to move important projects forward and address long-standing challenges in our community. There is still more work to do. I am running to keep that work moving forward and to stay focused on what matters most to our residents. I believe in listening, understanding concerns, and following through. This role is about service, not politics. I am committed to continuing the work, making responsible decisions, and doing everything I can to leave Sedalia stronger than we found it.
What are your qualifications?
Dawson: I bring experience, preparation, and a clear understanding of how to get things done at the local level. My time on the City Council and now as Mayor has given me the opportunity to work through complex issues, balance budgets, and make decisions that impact our community every day. Beyond that, I have worked to stay engaged and continue learning. Through my involvement with the Missouri Municipal League, I have been able to collaborate with leaders across the state and stay informed on issues that affect cities like Sedalia. That broader perspective helps bring ideas and solutions back to our community. I have also completed both certification and advanced certification through the Missouri Municipal League. I believe it is important to understand the responsibilities of this role and approach it with preparation, thoughtfulness, and a commitment to doing the work the right way.
What are your top priorities in office?
Dawson: My top priorities are the issues I hear about most from residents right now. First, we must continue improving our roads and infrastructure. This year, we have committed $1.5 million toward street improvements, and I believe strong, consistent funding must remain a priority. Second, I want to bring back recycling in a way that is both sustainable and financially responsible. Third, I believe we should work toward creating a dedicated traffic unit within the Sedalia Police Department to help slow traffic and improve safety in our neighborhoods. I am also very concerned about our seniors. Social Security cost-of-living increases are not keeping up with inflation, especially with rising Medicare and healthcare costs. We should explore options like senior utility discounts or freezing water and sewer rates to help ease that burden.
What goals do you have for office if elected?
Dawson: If elected, my goal is to support long-term, responsible growth in Sedalia. I want to see continued investment that creates good, stable jobs and strengthens our local economy. Growth should be thoughtful and sustainable so it benefits the entire community. I also want to see continued reinvestment in our neighborhoods. Across the city, we are seeing new homes built on vacant lots and families choosing to put down roots. When I am out canvassing and hear kids playing and families spending time together, it reflects the strength of our community and the pride people have in where they live. My goal is to build on that momentum in a way that supports working families, strengthens neighborhoods, and keeps Sedalia moving forward.
Why should people vote for you?
Dawson: People should vote for me because I have a proven record of steady leadership and getting results. I have focused on doing the work, making responsible decisions, and keeping the community moving forward. I listen to residents and take their concerns seriously, whether it is infrastructure, safety, or the challenges people face in daily life. I believe in practical solutions and staying focused on what matters most. This role is about service, and I have worked to approach it that way every day. Leadership at the local level is not about noise or reaction, it is about showing up, staying focused, and making responsible decisions day after day. We have made meaningful progress, but there is still more to do. I am committed to continuing that work with consistency, accountability, and a focus on the future. I would be honored to have your vote.
Compiled by Chirs Howell.
