Tiffany O’Donnell for Cedar Rapids mayor: Make a brighter city for everyone

I have two big reasons for running for mayor: Devon and Lucci, my daughters. I’m a lifelong Iowan and my husband, Michael, is a fifth generation Cedar Rapidian. We moved home in 2001 to raise a family. As our girls got older, we encouraged them to pursue their dreams wherever they may be, hoping that someday they would return home like we did. But will they? If they don’t, who will?

If we want all our kids, and the workforce of tomorrow, to make Cedar Rapids home, we need a new approach. To see a future Cedar Rapids, just look at our great past. There was a day when Cedar Rapids had diverse neighborhoods like Czech Village and Time Check with affordable housing, shops and restaurants all within a 15-minute walk, surrounding a vibrant downtown. A city with a place for everyone.

What’s holding us back? Leadership. Some days it seems like we’re running in place. I’m tired of watching other cities pass us by. I’m concerned that we’re “OK with being OK.” We need new leadership that expects more. I’m ready to be that leader.

As a 15-year news anchor, the stories of Cedar Rapids were personal for me. For the past 6 years, I’ve been advocating for women and helping grow their careers. Along the way, I’ve been an active community leader building things like NewBo City Market and more. I want to put that experience to work for all of Cedar Rapids.

I’m not a politician. I’m a mom, a neighbor, a small-business owner. I’m supported by Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. One hundred percent of my donations come from individuals. It’s about Cedar Rapids for me. Let’s make Cedar Rapids that brighter city for everyone — together. I humbly ask for your vote on Nov. 2.

Tiffany O’Donnell is a candidate for Cedar Rapids mayor.

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