Realtor to challenge Barron for Linn seat

CEDAR RAPIDS - Supervisor Lu Barron will have a GOP challenger in November.

Dennis Petersen, a Cedar Rapids Realtor, will run as a Republican for the District 1 seat.

“I think it's important that we have accountability, that we be responsible with county money,” Petersen said. “I think it's important that people are governed for and not to.”

Petersen, 52, of 1607 Morris Ave. NW, was president of the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors in 2001. He grew up on a farm near Vinton and specializes in rural residential property.

He thinks Cedar Rapids is part of the backbone of the nation, with its proximity to most major Midwestern cities, the giant grain-processing industries at ADM and Cargill, and the presence of Rockwell Collins. He wants the county to encourage small business growth.

Petersen does not have a college degree. Neither does Barron, who has been a supervisor since 1996. District 1 is central Cedar Rapids, including the downtown.

“I don't look at this as an upset,” Petersen said. “I don't think anybody should just have an unopposed ride, no matter who they are.”

Supervisors earn about $70,000 per year.

The county primaries are June 8. Candidates must file nomination papers by March 31 if they want to run for county office.