Brian Sparks.

Brian Sparks

Age: 47

Education: High School Diploma

Occupation/Profession: Tama County Road Grader

Family: Wife Erica, two daughters Haylee and Madilynn, son Cordell, one grandson

1) Why are you running for a seat on the Dysart City Council?

I was born and raised in Dysart and chose to raise our family here. I have worked for the city and am currently on the fire department and a member of Club Dysart. This is a great community and a great place to raise a family and hope to keep it that way.

2) In general, do you feel like Dysart is headed in the right direction, and if not, how would you propose reversing that course?

I feel that Dysart is on the right track to encourage businesses and families to come to Dysart and would like an opportunity to continue to help make that happen.

3) What are the biggest issues facing the City of Dysart in your opinion and how would you like to see those addressed?

Continue to keep everything affordable for all families, continue the togetherness of the community and make Dysart a place where people would love to visit and live.

4) The Union Community School District, which serves Dysart students, has been experiencing a downturn in enrollment over the last decade not unlike other rural public school districts in Iowa. Do you believe the council and the city’s current strategies to attract new residents and businesses are working, and if not, how would you recommend changing them?

Again, I think Dysart is on the right track. Enforcing codes already in place and making the repairs necessary to make Dysart welcoming and enticing to all is important.

5) If you received a $1 million grant to use for Dysart any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why?

I would see where the priorities are and go from there, maintaining and fixing what needs to be fixed and updating other areas. I would also ask for community input.

6) What are some of your favorite things to do in Dysart?

We enjoy all of the community get-togethers and fundraisers from the 4th of July celebration to the soup with Santa and pancake breakfasts. This community is one that comes together for those in need and to support other causes and businesses in town.

7) Why should people vote for you?

Being born and raised here, raising a family here and being involved in different organizations, I believe shows that I care about this town and the people in it.