Jasper County Supervisor Candidate Q&A: Randy Ray

Name: Randy L. Ray

Age: 67

Residence: Newton

Occupation: Entrepreneur and farmer

Office seeking: Jasper County Supervisor

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

Ray: As a lifelong resident of Newton, Iowa, I’m excited to share my vision for our community as I run for county supervisor. After 67 years in this close-knit county, I’ve seen both our incredible potential and the challenges we face. My 40 years as a farmer and 35 years as a small business owner have instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and fiscal responsibility. Though I am not a politician nor will ever claim that I am, the reason I am running for county supervisor is because I believe every resident’s voice matters, regardless of their background. It’s crucial that our county prioritizes essential services while minimizing wasteful spending of hardworking taxpayers’ money. My key priorities include improving our rural roads to ensure safe travel, enhancing the visibility of our courthouse lawn to honor our veterans and carefully scrutinizing how taxpayer dollars are spent. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for Jasper County!

2. Secondary roads maintenance is always on the minds of residents who drive on gravel roads. How do you feel about what the county has done for gravel roads? Are there any solutions or strategies you would propose?

Ray: I understand and have experienced the concerns residents have about the maintenance of our gravel roads. Since the change in management, it’s clear that proper grading has been overlooked. Further on these roads there are visible curbs that prevent effective water drainage. As a result there is pooling, which not only creates hazards for drivers but also accelerates road deterioration. This must be addressed. Additionally, the ditches need to be regularly cleared to facilitate proper drainage, maintain road integrity and contribute to a healthier environment for wildlife. To address the concerns about our gravel roads, I propose a comprehensive strategy focused on regular inspections and maintenance, improved grading techniques and proactive ditch maintenance. Establishing a schedule for regular inspections will ensure that grading is done correctly, preventing pooling and facilitating proper drainage. Utilizing the equipment we have and training maintenance staff where needed will enhance the quality of our repairs. Additionally, clearing ditches regularly is essential to protect our roads from erosion. I would also create a system for residents to report road conditions directly to the county, allowing us to respond quickly and prioritize repairs based on community input. Finally, advocating for a budget that allocates sufficient resources specifically for road maintenance is crucial to enhancing safety and usability for all residents. Together, these strategies will significantly improve the condition of our secondary roads and meet the needs of our community.

3. For the past few months the county has been holding town hall meetings about the proposed $6.4 million bond vote featured on the ballot this coming November. What are your thoughts on the bond and project? Are you in favor of it or not?

Ray: While I appreciate the efforts behind the proposed $6.4 million bond for the new Liberty Avenue Yard project, I have significant reservations. The plan aims to create a new home for the engineer’s office and secondary roads department, which is certainly needed, given the current shop’s deteriorating condition and space limitations. However, they do not have my vote currently. This is because I believe the project is over budget, and the planning process may not have fully accounted for cost-effective solutions. When comparing this proposal to the previous bond for the administration building, which passed with considerable community support, it’s essential to recognize that the context and scale have changed. The current estimate of $6.4 million raises questions about the efficiency and practicality of the plans. If more thorough and cost-conscious planning had been implemented initially, I would be more inclined to support this project. I am also concerned that, despite assurances that the bond will not raise property taxes, any potential shifts in other levies could still lead to financial strain on residents. The promise of keeping property taxes low is reassuring, but it requires careful monitoring to ensure transparency and accountability. Furthermore, while there are additional projects mentioned—such as a training facility for the sheriff’s office and improvements at local parks—these are not included in the current bond vote. This could lead to confusion about the overall funding needs, priorities for our community and ultimately more money spent. In summary, while I recognize the need for a new facility for the secondary roads department, I cannot support the bond as it currently stands without a more cost-effective plan and a clearer vision for how these funds will be used, we must do things right the first time. It’s crucial that we ensure taxpayer dollars are utilized efficiently and transparently for the benefit of all residents in Jasper County. With me as the supervisor you can be assured I will monitor this.

4. Paramedic-certified staff at the sheriff’s office have responded to emergency calls throughout the county and assisting smaller EMS providers. How do you feel about the advanced life support program? What should its role be?

Ray: I believe the advanced life support (“ALS”) program is a vital resource for rural communities in Jasper County, particularly for those with limited ambulance services. Having paramedic-certified staff from the sheriff’s office respond to emergency calls significantly enhances access to immediate medical care, ensuring that residents receive the support they need during critical situations. While the program may not generate substantial revenue for the county, its primary focus should be on providing essential care rather than financial gain. The health of residents should always take precedence over budget concerns. If properly managed, the county’s budget could allow for a surplus that covers the costs of this program, reinforcing the idea that every resident’s medical needs are a priority. The role of the ALS program should be to serve as a reliable support system for smaller EMS providers, bridging the gaps in service availability and ensuring timely responses to emergencies. To my knowledge, this is the very role it has played and found success in. Additionally, the program can foster collaboration among various agencies, enhancing overall emergency response capabilities across Jasper County. Overall, I fully support the ALS program and believe it should remain focused on delivering high-quality care to residents, with an emphasis on accessibility, affordability and responsiveness in emergency situations.

5. Property taxes and growing assessments continue to be an issue for residents. How should the county respond to these concerns? What would you like to see be done to help residents better understand property taxes?

Ray: Addressing concerns about property taxes and growing assessments is crucial for maintaining the trust and well-being of Jasper County residents. The county should take a proactive approach to respond to these issues by ensuring transparency in the assessment process and actively engaging with the community. First, I would advocate for clearer communication regarding how property assessments are determined, how they impact taxes and ultimately how these funds were spent. This could involve hosting regular informational sessions and workshops where residents can learn about the assessment process, the factors that influence property values and how tax rates are set. Providing accessible resources, such as online guides and FAQs, can also help demystify the system as well as provide residents with an end-of-year fiscal form that shows what funds went where.

6. What sort of things is the county is good at and should continue doing? What are things you think the county can improve upon?

Ray: Jasper County has many strengths that it should continue to cultivate and expand. Additionally, the county’s commitment to public safety, highlighted by initiatives such as the advanced life support program and the recent addition of support dogs to the sheriff’s office, highlighting its dedication to the health and safety of its residents. However, there are important areas for improvement. The first being enhancing communication about property taxes and assessments is essential, as many residents find these topics confusing and are uncertain about how their funds are utilized. Additionally, if we can curb spending, there’s potential to lower the tax rate, benefiting all residents. Improving infrastructure and services, particularly road maintenance, is another critical focus that must improve. Moreover, we must prioritize creating more employment opportunities for residents. By focusing on hiring local individuals first at the county, we can ensure that those who know our community best contribute to its growth. Lastly, addressing mental health resources and developing a clear plan to combat the opioid epidemic—especially the impact of fentanyl—are crucial steps forward for this county. By supporting those battling addiction and mental health challenges, we can foster a healthier, more resilient Jasper County.

7. Despite Jasper County’s adjacency to Polk County, it is still a relatively rural region. How do you feel the county should respond to future developments? Are there rural characteristics you feel the county should preserve?

Ray: As Jasper County navigates future developments, it’s essential to strike a balance between growth and preserving the rural character that makes the region unique. One way to respond is by implementing thoughtful planning that considers the needs and desires of the community. Engaging residents in discussions about potential developments will ensure that any changes align with their values and vision for the future. Preserving the county’s rural characteristics is vital. This includes maintaining open spaces, agricultural lands and natural resources that contribute to the county’s charm and quality of life. Development should focus on enhancing community amenities—such as parks, trails and recreational areas—while ensuring that new housing and commercial projects blend harmoniously with the existing landscape. Ultimately, the county should embrace growth that enhances the community while protecting its rural identity. By prioritizing residents, sustainable practices and curbing spending, Jasper County can successfully navigate future developments while preserving the characteristics that has made it a great place to live these past 67 years and for many generations to come.

8. Any final comments you’d like to make to voters?

Ray: As a lifelong resident of Jasper County, I want to emphasize that I’m not a career politician. I’m a working father, grandfather and small business owner deeply committed to our community. For years, I’ve juggled the responsibilities of running my own lawn care and snow removal business while managing a family farm. This hands-on experience provides me with a unique perspective on the everyday challenges families face. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to connect with each of you. Your voices matter, and, together, we can shape the future of Jasper County. I am dedicated to being a transparent and responsive leader who prioritizes our community’s needs. Your vote is more than just a ballot; it’s a powerful opportunity to advocate for responsible spending, improved infrastructure,and enhanced services that truly reflect our residents’ values. Let’s work together to ensure that every resident feels heard and valued. Thank you for your support!