Bond Answers Questions About Why She's Running for Ankeny City Council (BLOG)

I want to share with the citiziens of Ankeny the questions I have been asked in the last few weeks.  I would ask for your vote on Tuesday, August 14th. 

Why are you seeking the Ankeny City Council seat?

Having lived here for the past 20 years, I've watched Ankeny grow. In those many years I have been in the working class but on July 20th I turned 61 and am now looking at retirement.  It is the right time for me to serve the community on the council.  I have the expertise and experience needed and will dedicate myself to working for the citizens.

Where do I see Ankeny in the next 20 years?

Ankeny is positioned for continued growth. Community strengths include the proximity to I-35 and I-80. Businesses looking to relocate and expand will see that as a strong positive. I see a young vibrant work force, another asset for businesses and I see a community that knows how to plan.  Ankeny citizens want to work, live and play in the same community and with good leadership and vision, this will happen.  

What role do you see seniors playing in the community?

My goal is to keep the cost of living down in Ankeny so those of us either in or nearing the fixed income side of life will want to continue to live here. As seniors we want the safety and the security of knowing that our fire and police personnel will be there when we need them and they will be here quickly. The Nevlin Center, among other things, is a good example of what seniors want and need. In today’s economy, those living on a fixed income need assurances that they will not be forgotten and I am fully prepared to do that. 

What do you see as the relationship between the schools and city?

I want my grandchildren to have the best teachers and educational opportunities available. I support strong communications between the local school board and the city council as the community continues to grow and a relationship that is a win-win for citizens to minimize additional taxes. 

I believe that having DMACC within the community is a real asset. Agreements between DMACC and the Ankeny Schools help students get a head start on college.  With that said, not all students will seek a 4 year college degree. DMACC partners with many local industries and other companies to help train employees who will have excellent job skills for the future.

What is your philosophy on property taxes?

I see Ankeny stabilizing taxes, encouraging regional partnerships (thus maximizing the resources we have) and growth. I see the state legislature relieving pressure on commercial property taxes WITHOUT shifting that burden to residential properties and giving the city the time to make those adjustments. I see visionary leaders within the community coming together in a joint effort to give good feedback to elected officials on what they want to see happen and I see elected officials listening. My vision includes a strong community that can weather adversity, come together and continue to be a home for all ages of citizens.