To the editor:

The two most recent bond issues in Webster County and Fort Dodge that were being advocated by the current governing bodies were rejected by the voters (taxpayers) who of course would become responsible for the costs associated with those bonds. Are you satisfied that the incumbent office holders advocating for those issues are in fact listening to the taxpayers?

When a local or state office holder seeking re-election boasts about enacting a balanced budget, they are conveniently forgetting to tell you that the State of Iowa mandates balanced budgets. Some folks even consider receiving a federal or state grant for a particular project as a success albeit that those monies of course also come from you, the taxpayer. In that context, I would argue that the overall grant amounts received in Iowa are relatively insignificant compared to the amounts received by many other states.

So, as we approach the upcoming election, which will be followed shortly thereafter by the federal and state income tax season, I encourage everyone to vote Republican and in particular, Nate Montgomery for county supervisor for our district, District 2. While both candidates for that office are nice guys, there always comes a time when a change would be beneficial. I suggest that time is now. Nate Montgomery is well suited and qualified to be a welcomed change to represent the residents of District 2.

Dave Tjepkes

Former state representative

Gowrie