Steven Stoner.

Steven Stoner

Age: 31

Education: graduated from Wapsie Valley High School and Hawkeye Community College with an associate’s degree in Computer and Network Engineering and Administration

Occupation: IT Manager at Victor and Montezuma Manufacturing

Family: Kelsi Stoner (Hilmer)-wife; children Logan Stoner-4 years old, Briggs Stoner-2 years old, and Millie Stoner-2 months old

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

I’m running for city council because I care deeply about the future of our community — the same community where my children are growing up. I want them, and all of our kids, to have the chance to thrive in a safe, vibrant, and welcoming town. Serving on city council is an opportunity to give back, support small businesses, and ensure that we make thoughtful decisions about growth and community resources.

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

Yes, it is heading in the right direction.

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

The biggest issue in my opinion is financial restraints. All of the city council members have great ideas that would improve the city as a whole but money is tight. This is less about a Dysart issue and more so at the state and federal level.

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?

Yes I believe we are doing the best we can to attract new residents with tax abatement options and other opportunities in Dysart to welcome new families to the district.

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

-A portion of this would go to supporting small businesses and setting them up for long term success.

-Another portion would be improving the city park. Making this handicap accessible and more inviting to all ages.

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

-Take my kids to the parks and bike rides and pool in the summer time.

-And the best time of all is the 4th of July at the park. Seeing people in the community come out to a common place laughing and having a great time while celebrating the greatest country in the world. Our family looks forward to it every year. Nothing better!

7) Why should people vote for you?

I feel people should vote for me as I bring a young fresh perspective and energy and a long-term stake in the community’s future. My family will grow up here and focusing on good schools, safe neighborhoods, local jobs, and recreation for kids remains at the forefront of my council decisions.