Gazette's at-large endorsements for Iowa City Council

Voters have a diversity of candidates from which to choose in the race for two at-large Iowa City Council seats. The diversity is also reflected in our endorsement of Susan Mims and Dan Tallon.

Mims, a 32-year Iowa City resident, has an engineering background and now works as a financial planner with Heartland Investment Associates.

Her community service includes the Iowa City school board, including the president's role. Her public track record is as a practical and decisive person who takes a critical look at issues and options. Her priorities match the city's greatest needs, including public safety and fiscal responsibility.

Mims has experience with board work and budgets. She served on the school board when it hired Superintendent Lane Plugge - useful experience as the council searches for a new city manager.

Tallon, a University of Iowa student, who brings very different strengths to the race.

Tallon's youth and views about housing, public safety and other city services reflect a different experience than most candidates. That's useful in a city where 22 percent of the population is age 20 to 24 - many of whom experience the city in ways similar to Tallon.

But as the 20-year-old has said, he's more than a “student candidate.” As a National Guardsman, Tallon has developed discipline and broader life experience than many students. In an interview with The Gazette's Editorial Board, he showed a competent, thoughtful grasp of issues from public housing to taxation and economic development.

We thank local businessman Terry Dickens and another student, Jeff Shipley - the UI liaison with the city council - for running competitive campaigns and ensuring thorough discussion of critical issues.

However, we feel Tallon and Mims would bring the best mix of skills and experience to this next council.