Today, the candidates for the Webster County Board of Supervisors seat from District 5 are featured. They are Democratic incumbent Nick Carlson, who is seeking his third term, and Republican challenger John Cochrane.

District 5 includes western Fort Dodge, Clare and rural areas of northwestern Webster County.

Name: Nick Carlson

Address: Rural Fort Dodge

Occupation: Businessman

Party: Democratic

Why should the voters pick you?

“I have a proven track record of balancing growth with fiscal responsibility. With my experience, I am prepared for the challenge and will continue to work for a brighter future for Webster County.

“Serving as your Webster County supervisor has been a privilege, and I am proud of the progress we have made together. Throughout my time in this role, I have emphasized financial responsibility, invested in improving infrastructure, and worked to create new opportunities for economic growth. I believe in listening closely to our community’s needs and making decisions that are transparent and practical ones that truly improve the lives of our residents. By re-electing me, you are choosing a leader who is committed to Webster County’s future, someone who cares about keeping it a great place for families, businesses, and individuals to succeed. I would be honored to continue working for you and to earn your vote.”

In your opinion, what is the No. 1 issue facing the county and what would you seek to do about it?

“I don’t think I can narrow it down to one issue. I think there are really three key issues facing the county right now. Most importantly, there is a need for a new jail.

“There is also the need for EMS as an essential service.

“And then there is the misuse of eminent domain by companies that don’t provide public services. We as a board sent a letter to the Iowa Utilities Commission stating our opposition to the use of eminent domain. Now we’re looking to see what other counties are doing and looking for the best way to protect our landowners’ rights. We are looking at calculated ways to fight eminent domain without increasing our risk for litigation.”

Explain why you believe the county does or does not have a budget deficit?

“Iowa Code requires every county in the state of Iowa to file a balanced budget. Webster County is in full compliance with that. Webster County also maintains a strong cash balance.

“By law, we cannot have a deficit.”

What are the infrastructure issues you believe need to be addressed?

“Beside the usual upkeep of roads and bridges, which our Secondary Roads Department does a fine job of, the need for a new jail is a top priority. We’re hemorrhaging close to $500,000 a year to house inmates in other counties because our jail is too small. It’s been increasing every year. And that’s housing and transportation costs.”

Since the voters defeated a bond issue for a new jail, how could the county possibly proceed?

“We’re going to have to continue to explore other revenue streams. We’ll have to look at the possibility of state and federal grants.”

What needs to be done to improve emergency medical service in the rural parts of the county?

“Webster County has formed a group of professionals to identify current issues in EMS. This group will formally be known as the Webster County Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council. It will present a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors next month that will be placed before the voters in March 2025. They will have the option to vote up to 75 cents per $1,000 of taxable value to pay for EMS as an essential service. They can go up to 75 cents or anything below that.”