DOOR-TO-DOOR TALKING POINTS

Dave
Biggers for Mayor – Volunteer Canvassing Guide

Version: Budget 3.1 (Updated October 12, 2025)
Website: rundaverun.org

BEFORE YOU START

Your Mission: Have friendly conversations with
Louisville voters about Dave’s budget plan.

You’re NOT: A policy expert, a debate champion, or a
salesperson
You ARE: A neighbor sharing good information about a
better approach

Remember: – Be friendly and respectful – Listen more
than you talk – It’s okay to say “I don’t know – let me get you that
information” – Your enthusiasm matters more than memorizing every
detail

THE 30-SECOND PITCH

Use this when someone answers the door:

“Hi! I’m [NAME], a volunteer with Dave Biggers’ campaign for
mayor. Have you got 30 seconds?”

[If yes]

“Dave has a plan to make Louisville safer using the same
budget the current mayor already approved – $1.2 billion, no tax
increase. The difference? Instead of just responding to crime after it
happens, we’d put police officers in 63 mini substations across every
neighborhood AND open 18 community wellness centers for mental health
and addiction. It’s working in 50 other cities with big crime
reductions.”

“Can Dave count on your support on Election
Day?”

That’s it. Simple. Friendly. Clear.

IF THEY WANT MORE
INFORMATION

The 2-Minute Version:

“Great question. Here’s the plan:

Same Budget – $1.2 billion, exactly what the current
spending. Zero tax increase.

Three Big Changes:

1. Mini Police Substations – 46 neighborhood police
offices across Louisville. Officers on foot in YOUR neighborhood instead
of just driving by in patrol cars. They’ll know residents by name,
prevent crime before it happens. This works in Chicago, New York, LA –
50+ cities. Average 25% crime reduction.

2. Community Wellness Centers – 18 health centers in
underserved areas. Primary care, mental health, addiction treatment –
all in one place. Prevents crises before they become 911 calls. Saves
money, saves lives.

3. Youth Programs – After-school programs, summer
jobs for 3,000 teens, mentoring. Kids in programs during peak crime
hours (3-7pm) are 35% less likely to commit crimes.

Where’s the money from? Cutting bureaucracy waste
and jail costs (through bail reform), redirecting it to prevention. Same
total budget, smarter priorities.

Has it worked? Yes – 50+ cities prove it. Boston cut
youth homicides by 63%. Newark reduced shootings by 35%. This is proven,
not experimental.

Can Dave count on your vote?“

TOP 10 QUESTIONS & YOUR
ANSWERS

1. “Where does the money come
from?”

YOU: “Great question. Total budget is $1.2 billion –
exactly the same as the current approved budget. Zero tax increase.
We’re just spending it differently – cutting administrative waste and
reducing jail costs through smarter bail reform, then investing that
money in prevention programs. Same total, better priorities.”

2. “Isn’t this defunding the
police?”

YOU: “No, actually police get the exact same budget
– $245.9 million, same as the current plan. We’re not cutting a penny.
The difference is HOW we deploy officers. Instead of distant precincts
and patrol cars, we’re putting them on foot in 46 neighborhood
substations. Same money, smarter deployment. Preventing crime instead of
just responding to it.”

3. “Will my taxes go up?”

YOU: “Absolutely not. Zero tax increase. This budget
is $1.2 billion – the exact same total as the current approved 2025-2026
budget. We’re reallocating within the same total, not adding new
spending.”

4. “What’s a mini substation?”

YOU: “Think of it like a small neighborhood police
office – maybe 5,000 square feet – where officers work from instead of a
distant precinct. Officers walk the neighborhood, attend community
meetings, know residents by name. There’ll be one in every zip code – 46
total across Louisville. They’re open 24/7 and become part of the
community. It’s proven to reduce crime by 20-30% on average.”

5. “Has this worked anywhere
else?”

YOU: “Yes! Over 50 major American cities use this
model. Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, Boston, Baltimore –
they’re all doing community policing with neighborhood substations.
Boston reduced youth homicides by 63%. Newark reduced shootings by 35%.
Los Angeles cut violent crime 18% in program areas. This isn’t
experimental – it’s proven.”

6. “What about violent crime?”

YOU: “Full police response stays the same – officers
still respond to violent crime, we still investigate and prosecute. But
we’re also PREVENTING crime before it happens through community presence
and youth programs. Cities using this approach see 35% average reduction
in violent crime over 4 years. Prevention works better than just
reaction.”

7. “What are wellness centers?”

YOU: “Healthcare hubs in underserved neighborhoods.
Each one has nurses, mental health counselors, addiction treatment,
social workers – all in one place. Right now, 40% of police calls
involve mental health or substance abuse. Wellness centers handle these
better than sending armed police officers. They also prevent problems
before they become crises. Costs $2.5 million per center, but saves
money in reduced ER visits and fewer repeat 911 calls.”

8. “What happens to
current city employees?”

YOU: “No layoffs. Zero. Every employee keeps their
job. Some get reassigned to new positions in wellness centers, youth
programs, or community roles – often better, more meaningful work. We’re
creating over 400 new positions. All union contracts honored. Training
provided for new roles.”

9. “When will we see results?”

YOU: “Year 1 you’ll see 12 substations open, 6
wellness centers operating, expanded youth programs. Early crime data
trends should show improvement. By Year 4, all 63 substations and 18
wellness centers will be running, and we’re targeting 35% crime
reduction. But major impact starts in Year 1, not Year 4.”

10. “Why should I trust this?”

YOU: “Because it’s not based on promises – it’s
based on evidence from 50+ cities that are doing this right now and
seeing real results. The full detailed budget is public at
rundaverun.org – 831 lines, every dollar accounted for. It’s the most
transparent campaign budget Louisville has ever seen. You can verify
everything.”

HANDLING SPECIFIC CONCERNS

If they’re worried about
CRIME:

“That’s exactly why Dave’s running. Current approach isn’t
working. We need prevention – officers in neighborhoods, wellness
centers, youth programs. 50+ cities prove it reduces crime by 20-35%.
Same police budget, just deployed smarter to prevent crime before it
happens.”

If they’re worried about
TAXES:

“Zero tax increase. I promise. Same total as the current
budget: $1.2 billion. It’s all reallocation within the existing budget.
Not a penny more in taxes.”

If they’re worried about
POLICE SAFETY:

“This actually makes officers safer. When police know the
community and community knows police, there’s trust. Officers aren’t
strangers showing up to crises – they’re familiar faces who’ve been
walking the neighborhood. Research shows community policing reduces
officer injuries because there’s less conflict.”

If they’re pro-POLICE:

“Then you’ll love this plan. Police get the same $245.9
million as the current budget, but better working conditions. Officers
work from neighborhood substations instead of distant precincts, they
get industry-leading training ($15M/year), and they finally get to do
PREVENTION instead of just reacting to crimes. Ask any cop – they’d
rather prevent crimes than respond to them.”

If they’re worried
about THEIR NEIGHBORHOOD:

“Every zip code gets a mini substation. From the West End to
the East End, Clifton to Shively, Portland to Highlands – every
neighborhood. You’ll have officers on foot who actually know your
streets. That’s the promise.”

Pro Tip: Check the “Know Your Neighborhood” section
below to personalize this answer with specific deployment timeline for
where you’re canvassing!

If they’re
concerned about the current mayor:

“This isn’t about attacking anyone. It’s about having
different priorities. the current approach has had years and hasn’t
reduced crime. Dave’s offering a proven alternative from 50+ cities.
Same cost, better results. That’s the choice voters get to
make.”

DIFFICULT SITUATIONS

If someone is HOSTILE or
ANGRY:

“I hear you, and I respect your opinion. If you’re interested
in learning more, all the details are at rundaverun.org. Have a good
day!”

DON’T: Argue, get defensive, or try to “win”
DO: Stay calm, respectful, and move on

If
someone says “I don’t vote” or “I hate all politicians”:

“I get that. A lot of people feel that way. But Dave’s budget
is different – it’s fully public, every line item, based on what
actually works in other cities, not political promises. Sometimes one
person really is different. At least check out rundaverun.org and decide
for yourself. No pressure.”

If someone wants
information you DON’T HAVE:

“That’s a really good question, and I don’t want to give you
wrong information. Can I get your email or phone number? I’ll have
someone from the campaign get you the accurate answer within 24
hours.”

Write down: Their name, contact info, and the
specific question
Follow up: Email info@rundaverun.org with the question
immediately after your canvassing shift

If someone wants to DEBATE
DETAILS:

“You clearly know a lot about policy! I’m just a volunteer,
but I’d love to connect you with someone from the campaign who can have
that detailed conversation with you. Can I get your email?”

DON’T: Pretend to be an expert if you’re not
DO: Get them connected to campaign staff who can answer
thoroughly

If someone is UNDECIDED
and thoughtful:

“That’s totally fair. This is a big decision. Can I leave you
this information to review? The full budget is at rundaverun.org if you
want to dive deep into the numbers. We’re also having a community
meeting on [DATE] where Dave will be answering questions if you want to
meet him and ask directly.”

KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Before you canvass, identify which neighborhood
you’re in and when their mini substation will open. This personalizes
your pitch!

YEAR 1
NEIGHBORHOODS (12 Substations – Highest Priority)

“Your mini substation will open in Year 1 – one of the first
12!”

YEAR 2 NEIGHBORHOODS
(12 More – 24 Total)

“Your mini substation will open in Year 2 – part of our
expansion!”

YEAR 3 NEIGHBORHOODS
(12 More – 36 Total)

“Your mini substation will open in Year 3 – nearly complete
citywide coverage!”

YEAR 4
NEIGHBORHOODS (10 More – 46 Total COMPLETE)

“Your mini substation will open in Year 4 – completing
citywide coverage!”

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION

Example Personalized Pitch: > “Hi, I’m Maria with
Dave Biggers for mayor. I’m canvassing here in Russell today. Your
neighborhood is getting one of the first 12 mini substations in Year 1 –
within the first year! That means officers walking these streets,
knowing residents by name, preventing crime before it happens. It’s
proven to work in 50+ cities. Can Dave count on your support?”

Key Talking Points by Region:

West Louisville (Portland, Russell, Shawnee,
Chickasaw): – “Year 1 priority – immediate impact” – “Officers
who stay in the neighborhood, not just patrol through” – “Partnering
with existing community programs” – “Proven 20-30% crime reduction in
similar neighborhoods nationwide”

East End (St. Matthews, Middletown, Anchorage, Indian
Hills): – “Community policing keeps neighborhoods safe and
values strong” – “Officers integrated into business districts” –
“Prevention-focused approach proven in suburban areas” – “Same budget,
smarter deployment”

South Louisville (Okolona, Highview, Newburg, Fern
Creek): – “Fast-growing areas need dedicated officers” –
“Officers coordinating with schools and youth programs” – “Coverage from
Okolona to Fern Creek – every ZIP code” – “Investment in rapidly
developing communities”

Southwest (Shively, PRP, Valley Station, Fairdale):
– “Every ZIP code from Shively to Fairdale gets coverage” – “Officers
know the streets, businesses, and residents” – “Proven model in suburban
and mixed-use areas” – “Complete coverage by Year 3”

Satellite Cities (Jeffersontown, Shively, St. Matthews,
etc.): – “Dave’s committed to partnering with all 83 satellite
city mayors” – “Coordination with your city’s police department” – “Mini
substations complement, not replace, local services” – “Regional
approach to public safety”

WHAT TO BRING

Required: – [ ] This talking points guide (printed
or on phone) – [ ] Campaign one-pagers to leave with interested voters –
[ ] Clipboard and pen for collecting contact info – [ ] Comfortable
shoes (you’ll be walking!) – [ ] Water

Optional but helpful: – [ ] Quick facts sheet for
reference – [ ] Campaign t-shirt or button – [ ] Printed map of your
canvass route – [ ] Phone (for navigation and emergencies)

TRACKING YOUR CONVERSATIONS

After each door, mark down: – ✅ Strong
Support – Will definitely vote for Dave – ⭐ Lean
Support – Interested, leaning yes – ❓
Undecided – Need more information or still deciding –
❌ Oppose – Supporting another candidate – 🚫
Not Home – Try again later – 📝 Needs
Follow-up – Asked a question you couldn’t answer

IMPORTANT: Collect contact info (name, phone, email)
for everyone who is Support, Lean Support, or Undecided. We’ll follow
up!

SAMPLE CONVERSATIONS

CONVERSATION 1: Short and
Sweet

YOU: “Hi! I’m Maria, volunteering for Dave Biggers’
mayoral campaign. Got 30 seconds?”
THEM: “Sure.”
YOU: “Dave’s plan: same budget as the current
administration ($1.2B, no tax increase), but with 46 police substations
in neighborhoods and 18 wellness centers. Proven to reduce crime by 25%
in 50+ cities. Can he count on your support?”
THEM: “Yeah, that sounds good.”
YOU: “Awesome! Can I get your email so we can send you
more info and remind you about Election Day?”
[Collect info, thank them, move to next door]

CONVERSATION 2: Skeptical
Voter

YOU: “Hi! I’m James, with Dave Biggers for mayor.
Have you heard about his budget plan?”
THEM: “Nah, I don’t really pay attention to politics.
They’re all the same.”
YOU: “I get it, but this is different. Dave published
his entire budget online – every dollar, every line item. Based on what
actually works in other cities, not political promises. At least worth a
look at rundaverun.org to decide for yourself.”
THEM: “Maybe. What’s the main thing?”
YOU: “Police in your neighborhood preventing crime
instead of just responding to it after it happens. Same budget total,
smarter approach. 50 cities prove it works.”
THEM: “Interesting. I’ll check it out.”
YOU: “Great! Here’s a one-pager with the basics. Have a
good day!”

CONVERSATION 3: Concerned
Parent

YOU: “Hi! I’m Sarah, volunteering with Dave Biggers
for mayor. Do you have a minute?”
THEM: “I guess. What’s this about?”
YOU: “Dave’s running on a plan to make Louisville safer
using the same budget we already have – no tax increase. Big focus on
youth programs – after-school programs during peak crime hours, 3,000
summer jobs for teens. Kids in these programs are 35% less likely to get
in trouble. You have kids?”
THEM: “Yeah, two teenagers.”
YOU: “Then you know those 3-7pm hours after school are
when kids can get in trouble if they’re not supervised. Dave’s plan puts
them in programs with mentors, homework help, sports. Keeps them safe
and on track.”
THEM: “That actually sounds really good. Does it cost
more?”
YOU: “Nope! Same total budget – $1.2 billion, exactly
what we’re already spending. Just better priorities. Can Dave count on
your vote?”
THEM: “Probably, yeah. Let me read more about
it.”
YOU: “Perfect! Here’s a one-pager, and everything’s at
rundaverun.org. Can I get your email for updates?”

CONVERSATION 4: Pro-Police
Voter

YOU: “Hi! I’m David with Dave Biggers for mayor.
Quick question: What do you think about public safety in
Louisville?”
THEM: “I think we need to support our police, not cut
their budgets like some people want.”
YOU: “I completely agree. That’s why Dave’s keeping the
police budget at $245.9 million – exact same as the current plan. Zero
cuts. But here’s the difference: Instead of working from distant
precincts, officers would work from 63 mini substations across every
neighborhood. On foot, in communities. Officers know residents,
residents know officers. That’s how you build trust and prevent
crime.”
THEM: “So the police budget stays the same?”
YOU: “Exactly the same. We’re just deploying officers
smarter – in neighborhoods, not just in patrol cars. Police get better
training too – $15 million per year. This actually makes their jobs
better AND safer because they have community support.”
THEM: “Okay, I like that. I was worried he was one of
those defund people.”
YOU: “Nope. Dave fully funds police at the same level.
Just uses it smarter. Can he count on your support?”

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

You’re doing GREAT if: – ✅ You talked to voters
honestly and respectfully – ✅ You left information with interested
people – ✅ You collected contact info from supporters and undecideds –
✅ You represented Dave well, even if you didn’t convince everyone

DON’T worry about: – ❌ “Winning” debates with
hostile voters – ❌ Knowing every detail of every program – ❌ Getting
everyone to support Dave (not possible!)

Remember: You’re planting seeds. Some will grow
immediately, some will grow later, some won’t grow at all. That’s okay.
You’re doing important work!

AFTER YOUR CANVASS SESSION

1. Turn in your tracking sheet to your team
   leader
2. Submit any follow-up questions to
   info@rundaverun.org
3. Share any great conversations or concerns with your
   team
4. Celebrate! You just did democracy. That’s
   awesome.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

If you encounter a problem (aggressive person, safety
concern, etc.):

Campaign Manager: [PHONE NUMBER]
Team Leader: [PHONE NUMBER]
Emergency: 911

Never put yourself in danger. If a situation feels unsafe,
leave immediately and call your team leader.

FINAL TIPS FOR SUCCESS

DO: – ✅ Smile and be friendly – ✅ Listen more than
you talk – ✅ Ask questions to understand their concerns – ✅ Be honest
if you don’t know something – ✅ Leave information even if they’re
undecided – ✅ Thank everyone for their time

DON’T: – ❌ Argue or get defensive – ❌ Pretend to
know things you don’t – ❌ Trash talk other candidates – ❌ Stay
somewhere if you feel unsafe – ❌ Give up – every conversation
matters!

REMEMBER THE CORE MESSAGE

Same Money. Different Louisville. Better
Results.

• Same budget total: $1.2 billion (zero tax increase)
• 63 mini police substations in neighborhoods
• 18 community wellness centers
• Proven in 50+ cities to reduce crime 20-35%
• Evidence-based, not political promises

You’ve got this!

QUICK REFERENCE – KEY
NUMBERS

• Total Budget: $1.2 billion (same as the current
  administration)
• Tax Increase: ZERO
• Police Budget: $245.9M (same as the current
  administration)
• Mini Substations: 46 total
• Wellness Centers: 18 total
• Youth Summer Jobs: 3,000 positions
• Crime Reduction Goal: 35% over 4 years
• Cities Using This Model: 50+
• Website: rundaverun.org

YOU’RE READY!

You have everything you need to have great conversations with
Louisville voters.

Remember: You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be genuine,
informed, and enthusiastic.

Dave’s plan is better. The evidence proves it. Now go share that with
your neighbors!

Thank you for volunteering. You’re making a
difference!

Questions? Email info@rundaverun.org
More Resources: rundaverun.org/volunteer

Let’s win this! 🏆

Updated: October 12, 2025 | Version: Budget 3.1