Candidate Q&As 2023: Evelyn George for Mayor of Newton

Name: Evelyn George

Age: 64

Occupation: Senior marketing coordinator, Iowa Farm Bureau

Elected offices held: Ward 2 and at-large council member

Office seeking: Mayor

1. Introduce/reintroduce yourself to voters and explain why you are running.

Local elected officials are public servants and need to base decisions on the city’s overall best interests. I joined the council in 2013 to support two young councilmembers working to move the city forward (vs indecision). Since that time, Newton launched our “Get to Know Newton” branding, developed housing initiatives and D & D programs, became a Main Street community with access to exclusive resources and grants, invested in our parks, strengthened city staffing and financial condition and attracted new residents and businesses. I’d like to see Newton’s progress and pride continue.

2. Housing continues to be a priority for Newton, a city whose population has remained relatively stagnant for several decades. How do you think the city should approach new housing?

In 2011, Newton had no new home building permits issued. With new housing incentives and a full-time housing director, single family homes and a variety of housing projects were built including Jewel Tea Condos, Lion’s Gate and Maytag Hotel apartments. Currently Newton has two exciting new housing projects to add desired housing options - Legacy Plaza market-rate apartments and a housing addition in NE Newton that includes lots located around a pond. Affordable housing (Homes for Iowa, Habitat for Humanity) and multifamily projects need to continue. While the housing market is tough now, Newton should be prepared when developers and buyers are ready.

3. Street projects are frequent goals for the city council every year, but some people in town say more work is needed. How do you feel about the city’s current processes when it comes to street repairs and replacements?

The city has invested more in roadwork the past five years than in the previous 15 years combined. Street projects are ridiculously expensive so there’s a limit to how much we can afford each year. The city has a capital improvement plan (CIP) to address targeted street projects each year – unlike previous councils who “kicked the can down the road” due to cost.

4. One of the goals of Newton’s comprehensive plan, Envision Newton 2042, is to make the city a compelling destination for residents and visitors. How do you think the city should go about accomplishing this goal?

Newton is a compelling place to live for those who value small-town charm with city amenities. We have full-time EMS and fire, city police, a medical center, clinics, urgent care and pharmacies for public safety and healthcare. Plus, Newton has many desired quality of life amenities, including a pool, golf and disc golf courses, hike and bike trails, arboretum, Centre for Arts & Artists, brewery, pubs, NewtonFest, Fourth of July events and so much more. Five new park projects will enhance Newton’s appeal – new pool features, clubhouse, pickleball courts, dog park, and downtown spray/splash park. Newton needs to keep finding creative ways to share our city’s unique character and lifestyle to potential new residents.

Visitors enjoy our variety of small-town events, rich history, locally owned shops and outdoor recreation as well as major national events at the Iowa Speedway. Public-private partnerships collaborate to promote these amenities and events.

5. Newton Police is attracting new recruits and putting them through the academy, but many decide to leave for higher paying jobs. How do you think the city gets out of its role as a pipeline? What are ways the city can retain officers?

Public safety is critical to our residents. Newton cannot compete with metro wages, so we need to support and respect our officers throughout the community and have proper staffing to avoid burn out. Opportunities for training, mentoring, professional development, and advancement are important too.

6. Council goals from 2022-2024 and the $1.6 million park bond passed by voters show an increased focus on city parks. How do you think the council should handle its parks system and amenities that come with them?

Voters made it clear park amenities are important! Grants, sponsorships, naming rights, and public-private partnerships for park programs/events and new features can help with cost. Newton has some dedicated businesses and volunteers who continuously work to make our city a great place to live, raise a family and visit.

7. Property taxes continue to be a concern for residents, especially after another round of increased valuations means they may have to pay more. How do you think the city should maneuver its levies and its use of property taxes?

Property taxes are a concern, especially as the cost of living and inflation increase. Last year the city received 41.23% of Newton property tax dollars, the Newton school district 37.98%, Jasper County 18.18%, and others 2.61%. Property taxes support city operations, including police, fire, parks, and library. Staffing efficiently, removing waste/unnecessary work, managing benefit costs and salary increases have been in focus for years. Attracting new businesses and residents to Newton is valuable in spreading the burden. For the first time, Newton’s total assessed property values exceeded $1 billion. We need to continue exercising financial discipline in our budgeting process.

8. How will you keep politics out of local government?

Newton voters are key. They need to vote for candidates who will act in the city’s best interests, not special interests. I listen for and seek out quiet voices, recognizing that loud voices don’t always speak for the majority. I study issues before voting, using common sense and considering short-term and long-term consequences under best- and worst-case scenarios. I am not fundraising for my campaign. I’m running to offer voters a choice in public service leadership.