Lorentzen Says Interest In Government Lead Him To Run

Jeff Lorentzen, candidate for Mayor of Oskaloosa 2017

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The position for Mayor of Oskaloosa is contested this year, and features incumbent Dave Krutzfeldt and the challenger Jeff Lorentzen.

Jeff Lorentzen is a teacher at the Oskaloosa High School for the past 17 years where he teaches government class.

“It’s something that’s always been a dream and a goal of mine,” said Lorentzen on why he wanted to run for mayor. “I love being out in the public and working with the public and just that connection through the students and the parents… to me, it seems like a natural transition. I teach government. I love government. I work with the community already as a public figure.”

When it comes to his vision for Oskaloosa, Lorentzen says, “I think we’re on the right track. I love some of the things we’ve been doing.”

Those things Lorentzen emphasized include the downtown area, The Alley, the facade program, recreation trail and the early childhood development and recreation center “is crucial.”

Lorentzen said he would like to see the city find ways to become “more green.” “Not only literally as maybe some more green and open spaces, but also with our facilities,” to become a more environmentally friendly community.

One of the questions Lorentzen often faces is if his job as a teacher will allow him to perform the job of mayor. “I believe so,” said Lorentzen.

Lorentzen pointed out that he will be available during the summer months, and says that teachers do have some flexibility during the school year to attend events.

“One thing to keep in mind is that every single, pretty much throughout the nation, most mayors have full-time jobs and families. That’s just the norm. I don’t think this is even, in my opinion, an issue,” added Lorentzen.

When it comes to why voters should consider him, Lorentzen says that he’s very organized, approachable, has good communication skills and “I care about this community a lot. I feel like I would be the best candidate overall. I know I’d do a good job and I would be devoted. You trust me with your kids; you can definitely trust me with the council. I promise to do a good job as mayor of Oskaloosa.”

You can watch the entire interview below.