Letter To The Editor: Oskaloosa’s Future

Editors Note: The views and opinions expressed in this editorial are not necessarily the views or opinions of Oskaloosa News.

Oskaloosa is at an important cross road. It is vital to have leaders who will challenge bad policies to bring forth better solutions so that we can hold higher expectations for the future. It is important that we have leaders who will ask questions, demand answers, and if necessary be the sole voice of the people. Unfortunately, in doing this leaders are labeled as an “obstructionist.” It is highly disappointing that by offering a better path forward to the future and defending your right to choice, the majority are cast as CAVE people (citizens against virtually everything).

I write this letter urging Oskaloosa voters to take a serious look at the 4th ward city councilor race. Oskaloosa voters are faced with the choice of either sending back to city hall Jason Van Zetten, or replacing him with Steve Burnett. Both are certainly qualified for the position. At this important time in Oskaloosa, however, I believe it is vital that the voters of Oskaloosa send Jason Van Zetten back to city hall for a second term.

Jason is a watchdog for the taxpayers and has been a strong advocate for a smaller more simple local government. This has been evident as he and council member Aaron Ver Steeg have worked hard to simplify city code, and make it more sensible and effective. Jason will continue to ask the tough questions and vote for what is in Oskaloosa’s best interests, not the out of state health consultants.

Jason’s opponent believes more support should be given to the city manager and staff. I believe you are electing a council member to support your positions not City Halls. This is a core leadership problem that both our Mayor and Council have. The city manager and staff are there to support the Mayor and Council, not the other way around. As a former elected official in Oskaloosa, I have seen first-hand what can happen if too much power is given to the administrator.

Jason’s opponent has referred to MCDG’s housing plan as his and this is just false. There have been many people that have contributed to this plan including 6 people from MCDG, the entire city council, Mayor, and the city staff. The truth is, the plan was a collaboration of both the city and MCDG.

I unfortunately cannot express myself in the city election. However, I still have strong feelings towards where my hometown should be headed. When you step into the ballot box and vote on November 3rd, citizens in the fourth ward will see two names to choose from. As you look at those names and decide which oval to fill in, consider this… Opportunity. Progress. Personal Liberty. Vote for the candidate who bests represents those three things and Oskaloosa will be in good shape.

Charlie Comfort