McConnell

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is part three of a five-part question-and-answer series on Marshalltown city council candidates. Bruce McConnell, 37, is one of three candidates running for one at-large seat which opened when incumbent Leon Lamer decided not to seek re-election.

McConnell is interested in serving because he believes there is a lack of transparency on the council and believes the city should do a better job supervising contractors awarded contracts for street maintenance and repair. He works as traffic controller for JBS, and believes his skill in managing the company’s huge volume of semi-truck traffic is an asset which would serve him on the council.

Additionally, he cited an ability to work with others.

“At JBS one has to work with people from many different backgrounds,” he said. “That will be an asset.”

Other council candidates officially on the ballot are Al Hoop, Gabe Isom, Tyler Johnson, Gary Thompson and Dex Walker. Al Hoop is running unopposed.

The election is Nov. 5.

Q: The police and fire station will likely come in under the $17.5 million budget. How do you propose spending extra money?

A: I would like to see the money spent on either body cameras for local police, applied towards installing security cameras in our parks — for example, there has been vandalism at MEGA 10 Park – or used to reduce the city’s debt.

Q: What do you see as the most immediate concerns for Marshalltown? What are the long-term issues that need to be addressed now for the future?

A: Our streets need serious tender loving care. Specifically, Highland Acres Road and Marion Street.

Q: Since the city budget is millions of dollars, what is your background in financial concerns or how will you gain understanding of this major component?

A: At JBS, I manage the out-bound trailer pool carrying roughly $4 million dollars’ worth of pork per day.I understand how easily money can be wasted by not making the right decisions in a timely manner.

Q: How will you exercise fiduciary responsibility and oversight?

A: I will work to ensure the contracts for our projects are awarded to the best companies who will take pride in their work.

Q: What has been your civic involvement prior to this election?

A: I have no prior government experience, however, every day I work as a team with people from all walks of life to find new and better ways to get tasks done in a more efficient and timely manner.

Q: What policies would you like to see to improve the quality of life in Marshalltown?

A: I would like to see more volunteer programs established to help our community become more proactive in improving the city’s parks and recreational facilities.

Q: Have you attended city council meetings or other city-related hearings?

A: I have been attending every meeting I can, and will continue to do so, regardless of the election outcome. We can only change that which we are involved in.