Scott Olson announces run for Cedar Rapids mayor

CEDAR RAPIDS - Another candidate has jumped into the race for Cedar Rapids mayor.

Scott Olson, 71, a long time commercial broker with a background as an architect and a two-term City Council member, told The Gazette he is running for the top elected office in Cedar Rapids.

'Even though I am satisfied representing my district on the west side, I would like to make a dedication to a four-year term as mayor to give back what city has given to me,” Olson said.

If Olson wins, he will retire from his real estate business at the Skogman Commercial Group to meet his obligations as mayor, he said. Olson will continue his consulting work, which includes real estate advice for the Cedar Rapids Community School District.

Olson's priorities include addressing day-to-day issues impacting residents, such as street repairs, storm water-flash flooding, and enhancing city services. He is calling for sensible use of tax incentives to spur job growth and business expansion while not disrupting the private market. He wants to continue retail recruitment, which has spurred sales tax proceeds funding Paving for Progress and flood protection. He wants to promote positive working relationships with surrounding metro communities, school districts and county government. And, he wants to support the 'continued excellence” of City Manager Jeff Pomeranz and city staff.

'I bring unique background that I think I can do the job if voters give me the chance,” Olson said.

Olson moved to Cedar Rapids in 1961, after spending his early years in Chariton. He attended Washington High School, Iowa State University, and served in the U.S. Army from 1970 to 1972. He's served on 50 civic, community and professional organizations, and remains active on 14 boards and committees, he said.

Olson joins City Council member Kris Gulick and attorney Brad Hart in the race for mayor, although others have also expressed interest.

Two-term Cedar Rapids Mayor Ron Corbett announced last year we is not seeking re-election as he considers seeking the Republican nomination for governor, leaving an open mayoral contest on Nov. 7. The candidate filing deadline is Sept. 21. Cedar Rapids mayor is a part-time, non-partisan position.

The mayor earns about $35,380.

l Comments: (319) 339-3177; brian.morelli@thegazette.com