MARK WINKLER

I'm excited for the opportunity to serve as your city councilor and keep Coralville on the path to prosperity - measured in both economic and community vitality.

For much of my early career, my family and I relocated frequently while I restored underperforming business operations around the globe. We feel very fortunate to have moved to this area in 1998 and put down roots.

Coralville is my definition of world-class! Our children received an excellent education and graduated from Iowa City West High, prepared for college and careers. My wife, Annette, invests her time and energy in our youth as a Coralville Central teacher.

I've recently stepped away from a successful corporate career, culminating as vice president of Development & Strategic Planning, to focus on my passion for helping others succeed at the University of Iowa. As Director, Business Solutions Center, I mentor and prepare MBA students to be successful business leaders of tomorrow.

By far the biggest and most immediate challenge for the next city council is to get our debt in line with current tax revenues. Strong financial standing is the lifeblood of a city's well-being and the most critical component for success. I will focus my first year on working with the entire council, our new mayor, and city administrator in the development of a detailed plan to put our finances on more solid footing.

I am enthused and supportive of the Community Plan process underway and will lend my energy to engage the public in shaping priorities and budgets to assure we meet our responsibility to be progressive and effective in use of tax dollars.

My confidence that I can make a positive difference on Coralville City Council is drawn from my years of getting the desired results by building trust and consensus across groups, on my proven ability to organize, communicate and implement ideas, and a positive outlook on life and willingness to devote the time and energy to assure success.

I would appreciate your vote on Nov. 5.

Comments: WinklerCityCouncil@gmail