Candidate Q&A: Terlouw for At-Large council seat

This is one of nine candidate profiles to be featured before the upcoming Nov. 7 city election in Newton. Russell Terlouw is one of five candidates running for at-large city council seat.

Name: Russell Terlouw

Occupation: Warranty Field Representative for Lowe's

Hometown: Newton

Years of Residency: Entire life, 49 years

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

Wasted spending of taxpayers money, jobs.

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?

Struggle is crime, lots of it and the streets fix what needs first, then go from there.

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’m not for sure on that, lots of different types of neighborhoods, I will focus on that though.

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

Why do I want to run because lots of money is going out and people are upset. I’m a common sense person, and I see the current council members are far from being conservative with Newton’s money. I’m willing to say no if needed. I won’t vote for wasting other people’s money.