Steve Martin: Candidate for Wentzville Muncipal Judge

Name: Steve Martin
www.facebook.com/StephenMartinForJudge
Age: 58
Family: Married 34 years to Carolyn.  Our adult children have chosen local careers serving others, and we are the proud grandparents of eight-month-old Michael, who is learning to talk and sign.  We have extended family in Wentzville.
Education: Honors Degree from the University of Missouri followed by a Juris Doctorate from the University of Missouri.
Occupation: Over thirty years as an attorney, representing numerous companies, cities, churches and the American Legion.  Adjunct professor at St. Charles Community College.
Previous elected offices: Prior to my election as Wentzville Municipal Judge, I held numerous offices in my church and I have been honored to serve on various public and charity organizations.

CANDIDATE QUESTIONS

1. What is the primary reason you are running for this office?
I hesitantly entered politics in 2011 when I was approached by concerned citizens asking me to run against the incumbent, who is also my current opponent.  My final decision to run was made after hearing of the ethical complaints and controversies that surrounded my opponent.  After being elected, I have spent the last two years working hard to re-establish integrity in the Wentzville courtroom.  Once again, I am humbly asking for your vote in the upcoming election.  With your support, the courtroom will remain a place of justice, integrity, and professionalism.

2. What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?
Justice for All!  I will continue to make sure that EVERYONE has a fair trial and is treated with respect.  I will run the court without controversy and without ethical violations.

3. What's your favorite thing about Wentzville?
I am continually amazed by the compassion that Wentzville residents show one another.  In my work with www.crossroadscommunitycoalition.com,  I have discovered many wonderful and generous organizations serving Wentzville residents.

4. What is the biggest problem you see in Wentzville?
When I became Wentzville Judge, I discovered there were numerous cases involving violence, such as domestic violence, violence in schools, and violence toward police officers. Wentzville was dealing with repeat offenders who did not respect the law.  I have used my position to modify such behavior with punishment appropriate to each offense. 

5. What is your vision for Wentzville?

My vision is for a safe and secure Wentzville that people will be proud to call home.  As the Judge, my contribution is to consistently and fairly enforce the ordinances which protect city residents.  The court should enforce the law, not cater to offenders.  I have treated everyone with respect, listened to the victims, and handed out punishment appropriate to each offense.  While I am Judge, there will be no controversy. 

6. If an incumbent, why do you think you should retain your seat? If you are challenging an incumbent, what do you think qualifies you for the position more than the incumbent?
Last year I initiated community service hours (in lieu of fines) for certain nonviolent offenders.  I have reduced your taxpayer costs to operate the courts.  I have made the court open and transparent and not one ethical complaint has been filed since my opponent left office.  My efforts have garnered wide endorsements, including http://tricountylaborclub.com/april-2013-endorsements and http://wentzvillian.blogspot.com/2013/03/re-elect-judge-steve-martin-municipa.html.  I would be honored to serve the residents of Wentzville for another two years and ask for your vote on Tuesday, April 2nd.