Issues

 

Mental Health

Iowa and Polk County are in a mental health crisis. As a pharmacist and health care professional, John has often seen patients in mental health crises. He worked in the Iowa legislature to improve mental health services across our state. John will bring his expertise to the Board of Supervisors, working to ensure funding for and expansion of mental health services in Polk County.

Food Insecurity

John will focus on practical solutions that help families meet their basic needs and stabilize their lives. That means strengthening partnerships with local nonprofits, food banks, and community organizations to expand access to food assistance and ensure resources reach neighborhoods where the need is greatest. John will work to better coordinate county services so families experiencing hardship can access food, health care, and support in one place.

Housing Insecurity

John will prioritize efforts to reduce housing insecurity and homelessness by working with cities, housing providers, and community partners to expand affordable housing options, support transitional housing, and invest in prevention programs that help families stay in their homes. He will also advocate for smart use of county resources to support mental health services and wraparound support that helps individuals move from crisis to stability.

Clean water and climate

From lawn watering bans to high nitrate levels in our source water and links to cancer, Polk County and Iowa are already experiencing serious water quality problems. That’s before even considering the weather extremes driven by the climate crisis.

While climate change is a global challenge, strong local action still matters. Local governments must lead by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and expanding alternative energy. Polk County should also continue investing in proven conservation practices like saturated buffers and wetlands that protect our water and reduce nitrate pollution.

Property Taxes

Polk County residents are concerned about rising property taxes.  Many, especially seniors, worry about being able to remain in their homes. As a state legislator, John worked across the aisle to keep state spending in check. John will hold the line on property tax increases. In the 2022 legislative session, John helped manage the bill to lower property taxes statewide. As an employer and local business owner, John knows the value of a tax dollar and will work to make sure those dollars are spent wisely.

Infrastructure

Polk County government must provide for orderly and sustainable growth as our core community expands, while respecting the rural character of a large part of our area. Polk County residents deserve the highest quality services, including a system of well-maintained county roads and timely snow removal. These services contribute to the high quality of life we enjoy as residents of Iowa’s most populous county. Polk County must ensure that all its facilities and equipment are in good order for the safety and well-being of its residents.