After attending and participating in council meetings over the past six years, I have seen a consistent approach to city finances that has diverged into two very different camps.

One reflects the mindset of carefully analyzing expenditures and projects and taking a conservative approach as to where our tax revenues should be allocated. In my opinion, all “yes” votes need to balance the needs of the whole community and not give in to the demands from a select group. This is what Councilman Thompson understands and promotes in his council discussions and voting record. He knows we have competing demands for limited revenues (our tax dollars) and he works diligently to use those funds carefully and wisely.

The other approach I have seen is liberal spending to build a façade while our foundational infrastructure continues to crumble and public codes are not being enforced on a uniform basis. The most recent illustration I have seen is Councilman Isom’s proposal to use ATE (speed camera) revenues to further the Art Alliance master art plan, a plan that he helped develop as a member of their board. His voting record on other issues also reflect spending on the wants versus needs of Marshalltown.

The conservative needs expressed by many while Mark Mitchell has been out meeting with our neighbors is to use the proposed ATE revenues to help fund street repairs and/or hire another code enforcement person. The concerns of improving our “roads and codes” were reaffirmed during the recent meeting held at the UAW hall with United Today Stronger Tomorrow.

As I drive through Marshalltown dodging roads in disrepair, seeing unsightly junk and weeds, and hearing safety concerns; I am frustrated by the lack of priority our leadership has given to our infrastructure needs.

Can we afford to continue to promote and pay for more art when there are other pressing needs in our community? When does the open checkbook mentality stop?

Many of my friends, family and neighbors are calling for conservative and transparent leadership to focus on rebuilding our infrastructure and enforcing the codes to beautify Marshalltown then add in the fun extras. Once fixed, our roads can lead to the cleanest and friendliest small town around.

If you agree with this approach, focus on rebuilding our infrastructure then adding in the extras, it means reelecting Gary Thompson for at large and electing Mark Mitchell for Second Ward.