Ready to make the hard decisions

Born and raised in Cedar Rapids, a graduate of LaSalle High School, most of my childhood was spent running the acres of Ellis Park.

I always have felt a strong connection to Cedar Rapids as I felt the city was large enough to find something to do, but small enough to know your neighbors. This feeling still resonates with me today.

In February 2008, I was hired as the real estate disposition coordinator in the city's public works department. My role was to research city-owned properties in order to identify and sell those underutilized, boosting local property tax rolls.

When the 2008 flood hit, my position switched to the city's community development department, where I was the staff liaison for projects involving real estate and redevelopment.

In 2010, I became president of the Neighborhood Development Corporation, formed in 2009 to redevelop properties in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods with a focus on affordable housing and small commercial sites. I'm proud to say those efforts increased tax valuation in excess of $10 million.

Today, I am business development manager for Graham Construction.

My wife and I created the I Know Jack Foundation, a nonprofit for the cancer community. Along with making donations, we have distributed more than 300 'I Know Jack Packs” that contain comfort items for people in treatment.

I care deeply about our community and will do all it takes to make it successful. I'm ready to make the hard decisions ahead and I appreciate your support.

' Marty Hoeger is a candidate for Cedar Rapids City Council, District 1