Candidate Q&A: Mullan for Ward 4 council seat

This is one of nine candidate profiles to be featured before the upcoming Nov. 7 city election in Newton. Steve Mullan, an incumbent city councilman is running unopposed for his seat in the city council’s Ward 4.

Name: Steven G. Mullan

Employment: Former career teacher — now self-employed

Hometown: Earlville

Years of Newton residency: 50

Running For: Ward 4 City Council

What do you feel is the most important issue Newton will be facing during your term on the city council?

Newton must continue to attract job opportunities and a variety of affordable
housing.

What do you think has been the biggest achievement for the City of Newton in the last four years and what do you think has been the greatest struggle?

Many achievements have and will continue to occur, because the council has been progressive. A number of very good companies have made Newton a base for their operation, creating job opportunities. Also, the Main Street program continues to enhance the downtown area. The Chat study highlighted the need for a variety of housing, and, as a result, the council has sparked the D & D program, eliminating some 50-plus Dangerous and Dilapidated houses/businesses, creating space for new development. The city now has Fairmeadows North,Cardinal Ridge, and Fountain Hills providing housing opportunities and a growing tax base. Second Avenue South, with new parking lots and streetscape, along with homes that have been and are now being constructed throughout the city have been made possible though the combined efforts of the Newton Development Corporation, Newton Marketing Board, Newton Main Street Board, and community leaders.

The greatest struggle will continue to be providing needed services, i.e. fire, police, and infrastructure needs with budget constraints while continuing to address future needs.

What role do you think the city can and should play in economic development? What more/less should the city be doing for economic development?

Public-private partnerships should be used as much as possible. Also, Newton must continue to expand housing, because most companies do count the number of rooftops in determining whether the market area is sufficient to expand their operations. Local entrepreneurs must be encouraged to start or to expand a business. Our newly revamped website must provide a strong window into what the city has to offer, as well as providing information on housing, buildings available for business with data on size, age, taxes, schools, parks, available skilled workforce, demographics.

As for doing more for economic development, the city needs to stay the course, doing well with what is already in motion.

Housing has been a major focus for the city in recent years. How do you see the efforts continuing and what ideas do you have for future growth?

I have already addressed this in stating that we have sparked change, the spark has ignited and the results continue to expand.

Future growth must be carefully planned, and that is what is ongoing while being fiscally responsible. A vision might have a housing development supplied with a combination of wind, solar, geothermal power, maybe a first in Iowa. Doesn’t hurt to dream.

Do you think there is an area in Newton the city should be focusing on that has not received attention?

The city continues to face problems with an aging infrastructure. Pockets within the city limits exist. Perhaps the city and residents in those areas can find public I private partnerships to bring positive changes.

Why do you want to be on the city council and why should voters choose you to represent Newton?

I love the city and what it offers. Being involved in helping to chart the future of the city is a rewarding challenge.

Since I took office in 2003, I have learned a great deal about local government, the most responsive government. Citizens have access to me via phone, email, or in person. When a constituent contacts me, if I don’t know the answer to their question, I take the time to seek an accurate response and get back to them as soon as possible. Also, I willingly spend the time to prepare for council meetings, often visiting areas of concern and meeting people involved. Since taking office, I have missed fewer than five meetings. Last of all, I have a home here, have a business here, pay taxes here, and look forward to a bright future here. Meanwhile, my local barbershop will continue to keep me informed and aware of any miscues on votes I take!