About Lister
I'm Lister Potter, and I was born and raised in Lamar, Missouri — a small town of about 4,000 people in the southwest part of the state. I moved to the Kansas City area in 1997 to pursue a career in software and leadership, but I never stopped missing the close-knit feel of small-town life. When the pandemic hit in 2020 and remote work became widespread, my wife and I found the perfect opportunity to return to our roots. We became property owners in Linn Valley that spring and full-time residents by August — drawn by the peace, the community spirit, and that unmistakable small-town connection.
I've spent my professional life leading teams, solving problems, and improving processes — and now I'm stepping up to serve Linn Valley in a new way. My campaign is about restoring trust, improving transparency, and ensuring our city operates fairly and responsibly for everyone who calls it home.
I believe strongly in servant leadership — the idea that those in office should lead by listening, act with humility, and always put the needs of the community first. As mayor, I won’t just make decisions from behind a desk; I’ll stay connected, remain approachable, and work side-by-side with residents to shape our future together.
Linn Valley is a unique place — part residential town, part recreational haven. While I’m running to serve our full-time residents, I also deeply value our weekenders and seasonal guests. You may not vote in our elections, but you're a vital part of what makes this community special.
Whether you're here for a weekend or a lifetime, this is your community too — and as mayor, I’ll work to make sure Linn Valley remains a welcoming, friendly, and vibrant place for all.
My Platform
Transparency
The public should always know how and why decisions are made. I will advocate for open records, visible city planning, and regular communication so residents stay informed and empowered.
Accountability
I believe in trust, but verify. From financial controls to hiring practices, I will ensure city operations follow best practices and include appropriate oversight—because public service requires public confidence.
Fiscal Responsibility
We must spend tax dollars wisely, avoid waste, and plan for long-term sustainability. When budget shortfalls happen, raising taxes won’t be my first solution. Just like families can’t manufacture more income when costs rise, I believe the city must look inward first — for savings, efficiencies, and smart prioritization — before asking more from taxpayers.
What I’ll Do As Mayor
Here’s what you can expect from me — not just promises, but practical plans grounded in our community’s real needs:
- Launch a Community Transparency Dashboard
A simple, easy-to-read online page showing the city’s budget, upcoming projects, grant funding, and council decisions — all in plain language. - Start a Monthly “Mayor’s Minute” Newsletter
A brief monthly update you can receive by email or pick up around town, highlighting what’s happening, what’s coming, and how to stay involved. - Support Better Communication Between the City and POA
While they’re separate entities, we can build stronger collaboration by continuing regular check-ins and ensuring residents don’t fall through the cracks between city and POA matters. - Launch the Community First Fund
I’ll donate my mayoral salary to create an independent fund that helps Linn Valley residents in crisis — with transparent oversight and community involvement. - Preserve and Promote Our Recreational Identity
I will protect Linn Valley’s unique character — not just as a city, but as a place for weekenders, seasonal visitors, and anyone who enjoys lake life, nature, and neighbors who wave as they pass. - Make City Hall More Accessible
I’ll hold regular open Q&A sessions, listen to feedback, and make it easy for any resident — full-time or part-time — to get answers and be heard. - Review and Modernize City Processes
We’ll look for ways to simplify how permits, applications, and questions are handled — reducing friction and increasing responsiveness.