March 19, 2024

Kelley is a serious representative

Thank you for the Meet the Candidates: Iowa House District 29 in Monday’s Newton Daily News. It confirms my personal observations and belief that Dan Kelly is, and has been, a sensitive and serious state representative who rather quietly listens, observes and works to get things done for the betterment of individuals, the community and the state.

On Monday, I learned from Police Chief Burdess that policemen who take an “unpaid” leave for another career are not replaced by a “short term” police officer. This was very disappointing due to the fact the police department is wisely addressing the problem of sex trafficking and drug traffic in the community. Public meetings on these issues are held to inform the public of the steps they are taking to address the problems. I have attended one of these meetings and commend the police department for addressing the problems. However, reducing police staff at this time seems counterproductive to the department’s intentions. A full staff of police officers would benefit the continued directive of making the community safer.

I believe the citizens of Jasper County would benefit the most by keeping Dan Kelly as our very useful state representative and Wes Breckenridge as our very useful policeman.

Joyce Moen

Newton