Steve Van De Walle.

Steve Van De Walle

Age: 49

Residence location: Chelsea, Iowa

Profession: Engineer/Conductor for Cedar Rapids & Iowa City Railway

Education: AAS Drafting and Design, and AAS Civil Engineering Technician

Family: Married with two kids

1) Why do you want to be a county supervisor? What is your motivation for running?

I want to help our county thrive and prosper along with keeping within our budgets. I would like to review and revise some of the county policies.

2) Have you previously run for elected office? If so, for what office(s)?

Yes, I have been on Chelsea city council for over 20 years.

3) What distinguishes you from the other candidates in your primary race?

I worked for the Tama County Highway Department for 18 years and been on the Tama County Solid Waste Disposal Commission for over 20 years. I feel I have a good understanding of how county government works.

4) What changes, if any, do you believe need to be made in Tama County government?

I feel there needs to be more transparency between supervisors and the public. Also, I feel more questions need to be asked before action is taken on various matters.

5) What challenges does Tama County face today that you would like to see addressed by the county board of supervisors? If elected, what would you do to help address those challenges?

A greater need to attract and keep businesses within our county along with keeping residents here as well. I would like to involve the state with possible funding to attract new businesses along with residents.

6) Following the 2024 election, do you believe the county needs to return to a three-member board of supervisors? Why or why not?

I do not believe we need to go back to a three-member board. I feel more ideas and representation will help our county succeed along with questions that need to be asked on various topics.

7) The development of utility scale wind/solar energy projects in Tama County continues to be a divisive issue. What is your position and why regarding A) a possible wind and/or solar energy moratorium – temporary or otherwise, and B) property rights as it relates to utility scale wind and solar energy projects?

I believe more can be done with working with the residents dealing with the commercial wind/solar farms. I would like to have a better dialogue with those for and against these commercial businesses. As for a moratorium or property rights, I think we should look at what is best for our county as a whole.

8) Why should people vote for you on June 4, 2024?

I have been around County government for a good 20 plus years. I feel I have a good understanding of it. I also would like to be a voice for the residents of my district. I will ask the tough questions while being a supervisor and I am not a yes man. I will do what is right for our county.