Candidate column: Mark Banowetz

I am honored to have the opportunity to run for the position of Linn County District 5 supervisor. This has been a great experience to be able to hear citizens' comments and concerns about what's happening in their towns.

As a Linn County native, I take great pride in our small towns and communities and, over the years, have been passionate about the advancement of rural communities.

Not only have I been involved in rural communities in the past, in ways such as volunteering on the Central City Fire Department and working for the Central City Farmers Co-op Exchange, but also as an Ely city council member for nine years.

I believe that my background in agricultural business and as a small-business owner for the past 25 years allows me to use my talents and past experiences for the betterment of your rural community.

It is my desire to see the Linn County Board of Supervisors create a better economic plan for the county by reducing the number of taxpayer dollars needed and increasing efficiency in using those dollars to enrich our rural communities and provide these communities with the resources that they need.

I strongly believe that I can contribute vision, insight and creativity as we move forward the next several years.

As your District 5 county supervisor, I will not be afraid to say 'yes” on tasks that we need to get completed or 'no” on issues that I feel will not benefit our citizens.

This election will be critical not only on a local level but also on a national level, and I encourage you to vote for me and other candidates who will represent your values in the primary election on June 3.

I appreciate your vote and look forward to serving you.

' Mark Banowetz of Ely is a Republican candidate for Linn County supervisor District 5. Comments: markforsuper@gmail.com