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Editor's note: This is a first in a series of mayor/city council candidates in the November election.
Three new candidates are vying for the chance to become Osceola’s next mayor. The city’s longstanding mayor Fred Diehl is not seeking re-election.
All candidates were given the same questionnaire from the office of the Osceola Sentinel-Tribune. The election is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Candidates are listed in alphabetical order.
Ronald Eshelman
Q: What made you decide to run in the election?
A: This has been a decision that I made years ago because I feel it’s time for a positive change and to promote fresh new ideas that have been long overdue.
Q: What are the main issues do you think the city of Osceola is facing right now?
A: Osceola is and can be a great town to live in, but we all need to put forth that effort and take advantage of grants that, sadly, most people really don’t know about to make our city something great. We have some people who take pride in their homes and property, and then, unfortunately, you may have a neighbor who would reflect the “I don’t care what happens” look to their property. I know, understand and fight for the fact that we are not Waukee, West Des Moines, Altoona. However, our property taxes reflect as if we are, and yet our properties do not. We really need to look into and reassess our property taxes and how it is spent in the city.
Next, jobs. I see people looking for jobs all the time, yet the jobs they seek or may be qualified for are far and few here. Not everyone is a “factory” employee. Too many of our townspeople are having to travel 90 miles or more a day just to get a job they are qualified for. We lose money that we could keep here in Osceola if we could attract businesses like insurance company call centers, for example.
Then, there is the safety of our residents and visitors. Our sidewalks need repair. We have started with the safety sidewalks from the schools to the main intersections, but we really need all of our sidewalks updated and improved, not just for our kids but for those who have no other means of travel, rather they be simply on an evening walk, without transportation or those who are disabled.
Q: What would be some of the best ways to solve some of these problems?
A: Osceola really needs to stand behind their townspeople and help or direct them to get the grants and or loans they need and deserve to help update and maintain their properties. We need to put forth the much needed repair to our city’s sidewalks and other major infrastructure all over town, not just a few blocks here and there. We need to update our city to help attract businesses that may be less “industry” and more “office” to keep those who have to travel for a job here closer to home and their families. Osceola needs to be brought up to 2015 and the future. We are a small town, let’s present our town as a clean, safe, friendly place to live, work and play.
Q: What type of experience do you bring to the table? Why would you be the best candidate for the job?
A: Experience — personal. It’s common sense that I bring to the table. I feel that it is time to get someone in the office that works a job like many others here in Osceola and does his best work to look out for and supports not only his family, but those willing to make a difference.
I know the struggles that many of the people here in Osceola deal with on a daily basis. I have not been in politics to where my judgment may be clouded, but just like those here in Osceola, I pay taxes; I have kids to raise; I have a house to care for and I know that if I’m voted mayor, change will not happen overnight and most things will take longer than two years to accomplish. But, I can tell you the push for change and support for not just the city, but the the people in it, will happen.
Thomas Kedley
Q: What made you decide to run in the election?
A: I have always had a sincere passion for public service. The reason I decided to run for this office is because I want to provide a better quality of life for all citizens in Osceola. Osceola has strong traditions and roots. As a social studies teacher, I plan to respect those traditions, but change the status quo.
Q: What are the main issues do you think the city of Osceola is facing right now?
A: I believe the primary issues Osceola is facing right now can be encompassed into three overarching themes: updating infrastructure, quality of life and water.
Updating infrastructure would include, but is not limited to, continuing to pave and maintain city roads and sidewalks, modernizing our sewage system and water treatment facility, updating city buildings including city hall and the fire department, and developing our town square.
Quality of life for our community would include, but is not limited to, the continued growth of industry, new housing, and the development of our parks and recreation facilities (i.e. recreation center, paved trails, and growth of youth programs. Water would include, but is not limited to, the modernization of our waste water treatment plant to meet EPA standards and the creation of a lake reservoir.
I am in favor of the creation of the reservoir because we are an agricultural and industrial based community. Without the reservoir we will become a stagnant community as we will not be able to support the growth of new industry. In addition, I would like to see Osceola become a growing, self-sufficient community with our own water resources if there ever were a drought crisis.
Q: What would be some of the best ways to solve some of these problems?
A: The best ways to begin the process of resolving these concerns is through increased communication between Osceola citizens and their public servants, pursuing government and state grants and fundraising.
It is my sincere goal to use as many of these processes to unite and take the financial strain off the citizens of Osceola. Together, we can bring Osceola to its highest potential and keep it moving in the right direction.
I am proud of our city council and administrative team for the work they have accomplished. I will support them in their continued work on the many projects they have underway. I will also be actively listening to our citizens to identify other opportunities for us to change and grow in the areas mentioned above. I look forward to the opportunities to lead our community through this period.
Q: What type of experience do you bring to the table? Why would you be the best candidate for the job?
A: • Volunteer/serve on a variety of committees for the Osceola community and school district
• Teacher at Clarke Community School District
• All Social Science Degree from The University of Northern Iowa
• Worked for the city/parks and recreation of Clinton, Iowa
I sincerely believe I am the best candidate for mayor because I will work relentlessly for the betterment of Osceola and its citizens. I will strive for increased communication and will always put the quality of life for Osceola’s citizens first.
Dr. James D. Kimball
Q: What made you decide to run in the election?
A: I am running for mayor of Osceola because I want to be a part of the decision making process. I have been on the Osceola City Council and I enjoyed the opportunity to be involved. I have lived in this community since 1968 and am proud of Osceola.
Q: What are the main issues do you think the city of Osceola is facing right now?
A: Major issues:
a. A safe, adequate water supply
b. Streets and sidewalks
c. New codes to regulate rental properties
d. Sewer system renovations
e. Replacement of city equipment, fire engines, and police cars
f. Compensation for city employees
h. Transfer station
Q: What would be some of the best ways to solve some of these problems?
A: We need to continue to use our resources carefully. By using casino money for onetime expenses and keeping taxation at a level rate, Osceola has been able to meet its financial commitments. The city needs to work cooperatively with other governments, schools and local organizations. I want Osceola to continue to be a place where people live, raise their children, learn, work, shop, play and retire. We can achieve our goals if we work together and respect each other.
Q: What type of experience do you bring to the table? Why would you be the best candidate for the job?
A: I bring my experience, my education and my character. I have served in the U.S. Army. I have practiced medicine and managed a medical residency program. I have been president of the Iowa family doctors. I have served on the local school board and city council. I am on the economic development corporation. I ask for your support and will work to make Osceola even better.