KRIS DAHIR

NAME:  Kristopher Dahir

AGE:  52

PARTY AFFILIATION: Republican

DAY JOB: Pastor/Chaplain

EDUCATION:

My educational background includes a BA in Psychology, a Master's in Organizational Leadership, and I am currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership, with a focus on conflict resolution.

HOW LONG YOU HAVE LIVED IN NEVADA: I have lived in Nevada for almost 46 years

WRITE A BRIEF (TWO TO THREE SENTENCES) SUMMARY OF YOUR PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE THAT WOULD ENABLE YOU TO PERFORM THE DUTIES OF THIS OFFICE:

My professional experience is deeply rooted in organizational leadership. I have led private educational schools for over 26 years, and through the many boards I serve on, I have gained a solid understanding of budgets, leadership training, conflict resolution, vision casting, and goal setting. These experiences have equipped me to handle strategic oversight, resolve complex issues, and guide teams toward achieving shared goals.

Dahir actively serves on numerous governing boards, including:

• Community Homelessness Advisory Board (Regional)
• National League of Cities, Board Member and Chair of Community and Economic Development
• Nevada League of Cities, Past President and board member
• State of Nevada- Advisory Committee on Participatory Democracy (State)
• EDAWN- Economic Development of Western Nevada, Board of Directors
• Regional Transportation Commission (RTC)
• Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) Chairman
• Washoe County District Board of Health- Chairman
• Western Regional Water Commission – Board member
• Nevada Veterans Memorial- Board Chair and President
• JNTT- Board Member
• Past President and Member of Rotary

WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY IF ELECTED?

I have many priorities, having served as an elected official for the past 8 years, and I work on them regularly. One area of significant concern where much of my focus lies is in shaping policies related to Emergency Services. We are currently engaged in crucial discussions that will impact both the City of Sparks and the broader region. My goal is to ensure that our citizens receive the best and most timely services during emergencies. As the Chair of the Health Board, I find myself at the forefront of these conversations, striving to help all stakeholders find the most effective solutions for both today and the future.

IN JUST A FEW SENTENCES: WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS THE BIGGEST PROBLEM FACING SPARKS, AND HOW WOULD YOU FIX IT?

The biggest challenge facing the City of Sparks is managing the budget, and this issue extends statewide, with serious implications for the future. Our city needs leaders  who take into account all of the city needs as decisions are made. One of the quickest solutions for our city is for legislators to make critical decisions about resetting property taxes upon the sale of homes. As city leaders, we’ve been carefully monitoring the budget and have taken cautious steps when hiring to avoid potential layoffs down the line. It's crucial for leadership to navigate these budget challenges while keeping the City of Sparks a safe and a wonderful place to raise their family.

WHAT’S YOUR PLAN TO HELP EASE THE HOUSING CRUNCH IN SPARKS?

The housing issue in Sparks reflects a broader national challenge, especially given the unique job growth and diversity in the region. With land becoming scarce, many residents are either struggling to find affordable housing or concerned about the development of apartments and affordable units. As the available land diminishes, the city's future focus will likely shift toward building upward. Personally, I believe the best solution is to continue advocating for a lands bill, which would give Sparks the necessary land to develop new homes and infrastructure to meet growing needs.

IN ONE SENTENCE: WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING VOTERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU?  

I am driven by the principle of servant leadership, focused on listening, uniting, and guiding teams toward common goals for the greater good.

YES OR NO: WILL YOU ACCEPT THE RESULTS OF THIS ELECTION, WHETHER YOU WIN OR LOSE? 

Yes, of course. I believe that we have the greatest honor to vote and if the people of Sparks would like me to serve my final four years it would be an honor. If they choose another route, I am thankful for the years I have had.