Tyler Olson to run for re-election to Cedar Rapids City Council

CEDAR RAPIDS — Cedar Rapids City Council member Tyler Olson has announced his intent to run for re-election.

Olson, CEO of Paulson Electric and president of SiteGen Solar, announced his decision in a Monday news release, citing a desire to help the city capitalize on momentum gained over the last several years toward community and economic growth.

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“I’m running for re‑election because our city is at a key moment,” Olson said in the release. “The city needs strong leadership to maintain its record-breaking economic growth, accelerate west side flood control projects and enhance Cedar Rapidians’ quality of life.”

Olson serves in an at-large capacity on the council, meaning he represents the entire city rather than a particular district. He was first elected to the nine-member council in 2017 and won re-election in 2021.

On the council, Olson serves as chair of the Flood Control System Committee and sits on the Infrastructure Committee. He also serves as board president for the Cedar Rapids/Linn County Solid Waste Agency and Area Ambulance Service.

If re-elected, his key priorities include enhancing the city’s flood protection system, supporting economic and community development, bolstering neighborhood engagement and promoting fiscal stewardship.

Olson earned his bachelor’s from Claremont McKenna College and his law degree from the University of Iowa College of Law. He has served on numerous boards for local not-for-profit organizations and represented Cedar Rapids in the Iowa House for eight years until 2015.

His seat is one of five Cedar Rapids City Council seats up for re-election on the Nov. 4 ballot, including the mayoral seat currently held by incumbent Tiffany O’Donnell. Other seats up for election include those in districts 1, 3 and 5.

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