Petersen to focus on roads, budget

Though Linn County government has many responsibilities, there are three areas I believe are the most important and they will be my focus if elected. These are stewardship of public funds, mental health services delivery and maintaining roads.

As a farmer and small-business man for more than 33 years, I know the value of creating a budget and sticking to it. Prioritizing spending, and managing the level of the county portion of the tax levy are vital to economic health and viability. Spending must be smarter, so that we can continue to fund services Linn County residents expect without creating an undue tax burden.

Having a grandson with special needs, I understand the Linn County mental health delivery system is undergoing significant changes due to mandates from state and federal governments. The aim of the changes is to increase consumer choice in our mental health system. I agree with this goal.

As we integrate into a regional model, I want to make certain consumers of mental health services are involved in the decision making process. We must also make certain the state maintains the commitments it has made to be a partner with the new regions in providing these services.

Like most everyone else, I am concerned by the condition of our county roads and city streets. As the second largest county in Iowa, and a national leader in agricultural products processing, our transportation infrastructure is vital to the economic health of the state. We have unique regional needs and we must take the lead in pushing the state to find additional, sustainable methods to assist us in maintaining and upgrading our roads and bridges.

Linn County has a chance to elect someone to District 1 who will provide fresh ideas and a new vision for residents. I am grateful for the service of Lu Barron, and I pledge to continue the level of service the residents of Linn County have come to expect. I believe that all of our communities are important to the health of our county. I intend to see that the county government takes on the role of facilitating cooperation with all of the local entities within Linn County. Greater cooperation is the key to growing our county.

I would appreciate your consideration on Nov. 4.

' Dennis Petersen is a Republican candidate for the Linn County Board of Supervisors, District 1. Comments: dennispetersen@gmail.com