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Jo Ann Beer

Jo Ann Beer

Incumbent, Fairfax Mayor

A former small-business owner and computer software skills instructor, I served 20 years on the City Council before becoming Mayor in mid-2023. Additionally, I currently serve as the Metropolitan Planning Organization ‘s Executive Committee and Policy Board Chairperson, and as the incoming President of the Iowa League of Cities Mayors Association Executive Committee.

I have two married adult sons, enjoy college sports, reading, flower gardening, and participating in all our local activities.

1. If elected, what would be your top three priorities while serving on the Fairfax City Council?

My top three priorities include: a variety of housing and local business options with connected neighborhoods, exceptional fire, library, and recreation services and spaces, and minimal debt with easy-to-understand, easily accessed information.

2. What do you see as the top issue facing Fairfax today, and how do you believe the City Council could help address it?

I feel our biggest challenge today is maintaining our thriving small town charm without incurring excessive debt. Community-involved goal setting and strategic planning by the City Council will keep our “Home Sweet Home” headed in the right direction.

3. Alliant Energy has proposed the construction of a natural gas power plant to be built in Fairfax. What are your thoughts on this proposal, and do you think the City Council should be supportive of the project?

Alliant Energy has been an excellent community partner to-date. However, after dozens of thoughtful conversations with residents, I do not feel that a power plant within our city limits is a good fit.

4. Within the last year, the city of Fairfax has altered its leadership structure to bring on a city administrator. If elected, how would you work to develop and maintain an effective and productive relationship with the administrator and with city staff more broadly?

Fairfax continues to have a Mayor/City Council form of government. Responsible for the day-to-day city operation, the City Administrator will make recommendations to the Council. However, the Mayor and City Council set the City’s direction and policies which are accomplished through the City Council’s vote. The Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator should work together towards a common goal.

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