Stabenow

Editor’s note: Ahead of the November 2 election, the Times-Republican sent out questionnaires to all of the declared candidates in the city council, mayoral and school board races. In the mayor’s race, incumbent Joel Greer is seeking a second term in office against challenger Serina Stabenow.

Age: 48

Residence: Marshalltown

Hometown: Marshalltown

Profession: Social Worker

Education: Buena Vista University Double major in psychology

Family: I am a single mom of 1 daughter, and she graduated from UNI

Experience: I work everyday with clients to help solve problems and work on resolutions. I work with people that everyday simple tasks are a mountain to climb. I see people at their most vulnerable and they see no light at the end of the tunnel. I also see people that have totally changed their life around and those are the days I love. I am also an AmeriCorps. I am housed with Habitat in Des Moines. Last year I served on the Mobile Response Team in Marshalltown. I helped cut down trees and clean up yard when the Derecho hit. Since I am victim myself and losing everything in the tornado in 2018, I know what it’s like to be besides yourself and not knowing where to turn. I know where to turn people to resources.

1. What do you feel are the one or two most important issues Marshalltown is facing and how should they be approached? There are more than 2 issues. Marshalltown is in deep debt, and the paper trail proves that money is not being managed right. The city is also needing a good cleaning. Make Marshalltown beautiful and a place where people can be proud to live.

2. With COVID cases again on the rise, if elected Mayor, would you support mask requirements in Marshalltown? Would you mandate them? You can’t override what the governor has in place, and people will wear a mask if they feel the need to not forced to.

3. The city has a diverse population which isn’t reflected by the many city, private and nonprofit boards and leaders. How would you encourage more inclusion in prominent roles? I believe what you are trying to say is there is a lack of respect. One day I was driving down main street and there were a group of 12-15 years riding their bikes in the street. I about hit one and had to slam on the brakes. I honked my horn and asked them to get out of the street. These kids called me every name in the book. They are laws and rules put into place for a reason. We have become a society that is offended just so they can say “I am offended.” The American Flag is my flag and we are glad you are here in our country in our town, respect our laws and rules.