The only contested race for a seat representing one of the city’s four wards on the Fort Dodge City Council is in Ward 4 this year.

There, voters will pick either Councilman Kim Alstott or Gregory Gubbels to represent them for a two-year term during the Nov. 2 general election.

Alstott is seeking his sixth term.

Ward 4 is the north central part of the city.

The Messenger recently asked the candidates some questions about themselves and city issues. Their answers are presented here.

Kim Alstott

Address: 1232 N. Seventh St.

Occupation: Retired business owner

Education: Associate degree from Iowa Central Community College, graduate of Fort Dodge Senior High School

Why should the voters choose you?

“Because it is important to serve the community of Fort Dodge, where I grew up and raised my children. My family has lived in this community for four generations. It is because I have strong ties to this city, and desire to see it prosper.”

What is the No. 1 issue facing the city and what would you seek to do about it if elected?

“The No. 1 issue I see is the need for economic development of this area. Everything else stems from it. With vibrant economy we bring prosperity into the city, which in turn brings more tax revenue. The city is able to tackle more projects, infrastructure and streets, new housing development, amenities, shopping, daycare, etc.”

What do you think should be done with the Warden Plaza?

“There were developers interested in taking on the Warden Plaza project. However, for one reason or another, these plans fell through. The structure is classified by state as under historic preservation. Because of that fact, we have to find an entity, who would maintain its historical value and restore it with that in mind. That is our hope for the future that we would be able to find such a developer, unless the state changes its classification.”

What is your position on defunding the police?

“Our responsibility as a council is to make sure our citizens are kept safe. From my observation while visiting other cities where police had been defunded, their crime rate has increased exponentially. I believe our police needs our respect and support, because they put their lives on a line daily, on our behalf. If anything, I wish we could find more money to increase the force.”

Gregory Gubbels

Address: 1633 N. 11th St.

Occupation: City letter carrier, United States Postal Service

Education: Graduate of West Harrison High School

Why should the voters choose you?

“Why not? If they are are looking for a change or a different view, I think I’m the guy.”

What is the No. 1 issue facing the city and what would you seek to do about it if elected?

“Growth is the No. 1 issue. I feel like we are headed in the right direction, but we’re going way too fast. We need to slow things down a tad bit. We need to step back and take a look into what will bring people to Fort Dodge. Is it newer affordable housing, entertainment, shopping? We need something to bring people to Fort Dodge rather than bypass us for Ames or Des Moines. I really think a Sam’s Club or Costco and a Lowes would help.”

What do you think should be done with the Warden Plaza?

“I’m really not sure. If nobody is going to come in and fix it up, I’d either like to see it torn down for redevelopment, but I have a feeling that wouldn’t be cost effective. If anything I’d like to see the city take it back over and maybe see about some grants to give the outside a facelift so it doesn’t look like an eyesore when you drive by.”

What is your position on defunding the police?

“I’d say no!! I think it’s a crazy idea. Who would want less police on the streets? My guess would be criminals. I feel like we have a great Police Department and Sheriff Department here in our community.”