Houser ready to serve residents again

As I look back on my previous years of service as a Linn County Supervisor, I fondly remember the numerous accomplishments I was part of that took place during that time.

Memorable was the 2008 flood and quick response by the Board and other elected officials to restore county government functions within days of the disaster. My most memorable experience was June 11, 2008, when I was helping pump water out of the basement of the courthouse, trying to save the building from the flood. After leaving and driving home in water up to the running boards of my Suburban, my wife thought I was crazy. But I felt obligated to the citizens of Linn County and wanted to do it.

I always took my Supervisor job seriously and worked hard. I was liaison to all county departments at one time or another. I served on state and national committees to broaden my knowledge of better ways to serve my constituents.

One of my accomplishments in office includes implementing the first IP based interoperable public safety radio solution, which allows all enforcement agencies to seamlessly communicate. By the end of my term in 2010, I was involved in the design of and signed contracts for repair of all County buildings damaged by the flood. The Linn County Courthouse was dedicated in May, 2014, as the final project completed since the flood of 2008.

A native Cedar Rapidian, I have been an active member of the community. I am a member of St. Jude's Catholic Church, a past board member of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, past Jefferson Band Parent member, and a 41-year member of the Sheet Metal Local 263. I also serve as a Linn County Reserve Deputy Sheriff with over 35 years of service.

My goal in returning to the Board of Supervisors is to concentrate on two areas of great concern, including the unraveling of services for people with disabilities and flood protection for May's Island.

As I think back to the flood of 2008 and the waters lapping at the running boards of my Suburban, I am reminded of how much I love Linn County and its residents. I will use my 19 years of experience as a supervisor to serve residents. I ask for your vote on Nov. 4.

' Jim Houser is a Democratic candidate for the Linn County Board of Supervisors, District 1. Comments: jimhsecxos@aol.com