On the Issues

I have proven that I am a voice for working families, am committed to helping our most vulnerable residents, and am accessible to Polk County residents.

  • Led efforts to improve safety in Downtown Des Moines, including increased security, lighting improvements, new camera systems and the creation of an entertainment district.
  • Supports water quality issues, such as water quality monitoring, funding for water quality initiatives of ICON Water Trails, floodplain restoration in Four Mile Creek and Easter Lake enhancements.
  • Visits neighborhood associations yearly, visits the Polk County Community Centers, and regularly participates in community events.

I consistently put the needs of Polk County residents first and am a responsible steward of Polk County property taxes.

  • Led the bi-partisan effort in Polk County to adopt a balanced budget every year since being elected. Support a 5% property tax reduction.
  • As Chair of the Board of Supervisors, I helped Polk County earn a AAA bond rating (the highest possible rating) with healthy reserves and strong fiscal management.
  • Led the effort to reduce rural water rates by 50%.
  • Participated in the committee that hired Spectra venue management as the operator of the Iowa Events Center and has returned nearly $2 million back to Polk County each of the last three years.
  • Participating in a strategic planning process to invest Polk County’s $95 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds in four critical areas: affordable housing, water quality, mental health and economic stability.

I have proven that I am a voice for economic development, neighborhood revitalization and safety.

  • Pursue county funding for the communities in the district I represent.
  • Partnered with the Des Moines Public Schools to assist in the renovation of William Stadium for the families and students of East High School and Grandview University.
  • Led the efforts for many transportation infrastructure improvements including NE 56th Street reconstruction, Parker Blvd in Polk City, installation of signaled intersections at NE 70th & Hwy 163 and the new intersection at NE 75th & Hwy 163.
  • Facilitated the process that now allows for all police and fire jurisdictions to communicate on the same radio frequency during a major disaster or emergency.
  • Created a task force to address safety concerns on Court Avenue and in East Village that resulted in increased police presence, improved lighting and camera installation.
  • Supported extensive renovations at Easter Lake that will improve local water quality and provide additional recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • Advocated for centralized coordination of area Watershed Management Authorities, whose work will improve Central Iowa water quality.
  • Negotiated the purchase of Sleepy Hollow Sports Park in order to continue to provide high quality year-round outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Was a leader in creating a new non-profit, Invest DSM, with the City of Des Moines to invest $10 million per year in home renovations and repairs as part of an initiative to revitalize Des Moines neighborhoods.