***COMPLETE UPDATE FOR APRIL 2010 ELECTIONS***
Gladstone passed BSL in February, 2007. Their ordinance declares all new pit bull type dogs in the city dangerous regardless of past behavior. After the spring election, two of the three members of the council that voted for the ban will no longer be on the council.
Les Smith is the only politician up for re-election in the April 2010 elections and is running unopposed. We recommend voting against him regardless - write in your own name. If it weren't for Les Smith, Gladstone wouldn't have a pit bull ban.
Mayor Les Smith - Consistantly pushed for BSL and voted in favor of it. -------------------------------
Carol Rudi -- Ms. Rudi consistantly spoke out against BSL and provided many alternatives. She supported positive steps such as anti-tethering and increased animal control. Rudi was vocally against BSL but unable to persuade enough others to her side.
Carol Suter - Stance Unknown
Mark Revenaugh - Incumbant. Consistently spoke out against BSL. Said it was unfair and would not solve the problem. He questioned why pit bulls were the only breed that was singled out in the ordinance. "This is as close to banning a pit bull as you can get," he told the KC Star. "Other breeds get to prove they are dangerous, but not the pit bull."Les Smith -- Mr. Smith was the most vocal councilman in support of BSL. He consistantly said "We're not calling for a ban, we just want to get at irresponsible owners". Mr. Smith was arrogant and instead of really listening to testimony, was busy thinking up responses to justify his position. He ignored all of the Animal Control Staff's recommendations against BSL. Unfortunately, Smith is now mayor.
Barry McCullough - Is against breed specific legislation.