POST FALLS - Jayson Cornwell believes the Post Falls City Council can use some younger blood.

The 28-year-old corrections officer with Spokane County Detention Services is one of two candidates challenging Betty Ann Henderson for Post Falls City Council Seat No. 4.

"I feel that Post Falls needs a more diverse city council," Cornwell said. "I believe that my generation needs more representation. Right now there is a generational disinterest in local politics, which desperately needs to change."

Cornwell said he thinks the city is in good shape, but believes he has the skills to be a part of making it even better.

"Complaints from citizens are few and broad. However, paying attention to detail will make this city great. I have the willingness and the background to pay attention to these details."

Cornwell, a husband and father, said sustainable growth will allow children opportunities to call Post Falls "home."

"The decisions that I make, if elected, will not only affect me, they will affect future generations," he said. "I understand these responsibilities and am more than willing to represent the citizens of this wonderful city."

Cornwell, a political newcomer, said his background in communication and leadership would be a valuable asset to the council.

He joined the Air Force when he was 18 and currently serves with the Air National Guard. He was deployed to Iraq twice. Full disclosure, Cornwell said: His service in uniform does not imply the military endorses him as a candidate.

"Ten years in the military has given me the experience of clearly communicating issues at all levels," he said. "I love education and will take all advice given into consideration. I can talk to people of all backgrounds and ages. Finally, I can handle people venting. I have done it since day one in the military and do it on a daily basis in corrections."

Cornwell, who has lived in Post Falls for five years, recently graduated from Gonzaga University with a master's degree in organizational leadership. He also has associate's degrees in criminal justice and general studies and a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies.

"I have seen firsthand how important communication and leadership are, and the adverse effects that these two qualities can cause if done poorly," he said. "People will know how to get a hold of me, and they will get a personal and timely response. I feel that communication is key and if the public does not get a response, it leaves a bitter and disinterested taste in their mouth."

Cornwell said he thinks new business, not taxes, should pay for improving services.

"I will encourage streamlining the paperwork it takes to bring businesses to Post Falls," he said. "I have been told by several business owners that this process is very complicated and needs to be revamped.

"When a business is prospectively looking at bringing a business to Post Falls, it should be a one-stop shop. A business shouldn't have to run all over the place to talk to people."

Cornwell said the city could improve on communicating its issues and upcoming decisions.

"This needs to be broadcasted in a way that people know, directly, who and what the decision affects," he said.

He said safety concerns with streets need to be addressed, including manhole covers that can be as bad on vehicles as potholes, and crosswalks that need to be properly marked.

"This needs to be addressed before we work on things like roundabouts," he said. "I understand the purpose of roundabouts and the safety they offer. However, they are very costly. Before we invest more in altering intersections, I would like to see potholes filled, streets properly marked, better street lighting and safer crosswalks."

Cornwell said he's not afraid to tackle complicated issues, including meeting wastewater standards.

"This is going to take a lot of research and time," he said. "I look forward to this challenge."

Cornwell is a volunteer with the American Legion, Special Olympics, Livestrong Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club.

Until recently, Cornwell was a full-time student, working three jobs. He recently resigned from Center Target Sports to focus on his campaign.

"I have the dedication that this city needs, and now I have the time," he said.