Election 2025

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

My name is Stephen Smith. I have lived in Baxter since 1977. I met a wonderful lady from Baxter in 1974 and married her in 1975. I have two sons, 4 grand children, and one great grandson. Both of my sons live in Baxter and are raising their families here. I have a great hobby of restoring antique furniture that keeps me very busy at times. I also work for the Baxter community school as a grounds person.

What are you running for?

Mayor of Baxter

Why are you running for city government?

I have served in city government in many different positions over 30 years. I am very proud of this community and its people. I have seen good times and bad times, but the community always comes together in the end. I enjoy representing and working for all the people of our community. I hope i can add some very positive things for Baxter.

Being part of our community has been a huge part of my life. Over the years I have volunteered for many organizations: Jasper County E 911 board (31 years as Chair), County Emergency Management board (31 years), Baxter Mens Club (10 years), Baxter Flag Football (3 years), Baxter Rescue (18 years), Baxter Fire Dept (19 Years — Chief last 5 years), Baxter Disaster Services (12 years) and Baxter Fun days (10 years)

I have also served in paid positions as mayor (10 years previously) and as city council (12 years previous) and currently still serving as current city council member which will bring the total for city council to 14.

Why do you think public service is important?

I think when you serve people they want you to have an open mind and look at all aspects of issues that may affect them. People want to use you as their voice and make the best decision for them and not for you. Integrity and good ethics are very important when you represent them. Transparency and truth need to work together. You cannot do one without the other. You must be open and able to allow all that you represent to have a say about business and issues in the community. Honesty must ALWAYS be number ONE. ALWAYS

What issues in the city are most important to you?

we need to concentrate on first time home buyers with young families and we need to be able to give affordable housing to bring families with children into our community so we can continue to grow. Our school is not only our largest employer in town, it is very important to all of the people, because of the bonding projects have always overwhelming passed each time. We have a great school system.

Where is the city succeeding?

We have succeeded in keeping our town vibrant by supporting the school and working closely with the. If not for the school “Small town Iowa” goes away. We have done multiple projects with them with great success.

Where does it need improvements?

We as a small iowa town keep working on infrastructure issues. Having accomplished a lot but have a lot yet to go. We still have a lot left to go. Funding today is a lot tougher than it was in the past.