Betty Ellis (R), who served as Wright County Auditor since 2001 and Treasurer of the District II Auditor’s Association for 13 years, is running to represent Wright County’s District 5. Ellis grew up surrounded by animal and crop farming. Ellis holds a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Business with an emphasis in finance. Ellis continues her family’s work in agriculture by farming land west of Dows with her husband, Brian. Ellis feels she is positioned to leverage her expertise in county finances and relationships to better the community.
Why are you running for Wright County Board of Supervisors? What is the one change you hope to bring about in Wright County?
As an Auditor, I am to follow the Iowa Code and policies set by our elected officials to ensure dollars are spent accordingly. As a County Supervisor, I can have a voice in setting the policies and procedures necessary to continue to move the county forward in a positive direction. I believe that with an experienced and compassionate local leadership, we can address any issue and make improvements.
How do you plan to approach budgetary decisions as a county supervisor, balancing fiscal responsibility while meeting the needs of various county departments and programs?
All departments will have to tighten their budgets and may have to do without just like we do with our personal budgets. Decisions will need to be made for the continuity and longevity of services provided. A priority will be to maintain a high quality of life through well-planned economic growth within our agriculture community. As well as watching the spending in various departments as the state legislators continue handing down unfunded mandates creating tighter budgets.
How do you plan to ensure equitable access to public services across different communities within the county?
I plan to work with the County department heads that manage public services to the citizens to ensure that they effectively and efficiently are providing the service with little waste. Keep open communication with the citizens about what their needs are and work on matching that need with a county department or a partner provider in the county.
What initiatives would you prioritize to promote economic growth and job creation in our county?
Working with local leaders in the community to understand their needs and what, as a county, we can do to help entice businesses to come to Wright County. Understanding that expanded valuations create a tax base, which creates tax revenue, which helps fund the county, city, and school services. I would also utilize the financial tools available by the Iowa Code in creating Urban Renewal Areas & using Tax Increment Financing if it made sense.
How would you engage with citizens to understand their needs and concerns, and how would you advocate for them at the county level?
This would not change for me, as I have always used the open-door concept. I will continue to attend public functions and listen to citizens’ concerns and compliments regarding Wright County. With my years of experience in county government, I am well versed as to the reasons why some decisions were made in the past and can explain the financial aspect of decisions. If I don’t know the answer, I will research it and get back to them.
What is your strategy to build relationships with state and federal officials to advance the interests of our county?
I am currently the Legislative Liaison for the Auditor’s Association. I plan to continue to be a strong voice within the Supervisor Association and with the relationships in Des Moines that I have built. The knowledge that I have being the Auditor for the past 23 years gives me a vast knowledge of how county government works and is funded.
Todd Foss, a lifelong resident of Wright County, attended Northwest Iowa Tech College focusing on the power line installer program after graduating high school in 1981. Foss started as an Apprentice Linemen and advanced to Manager of Business & Community Development at Prairie Energy. He has served on various boards through the years, the longest being on the Wright County Economic Development Board. Foss, a Republican, feels his great appreciation and understanding of the Demographics of Wright County will aid him if he were to be elected to the Wright County Board of Supervisors.
Why are you running for Wright County Board of Supervisors? What is the one change you hope to bring about in Wright County?
When I announced my retirement in October, I was encouraged by several residents of Wright County to run for Supervisor. After talking with my wife, Denise, and continued calls from others encouraging me to run, I decided it was the right decision. Anyone who runs for any kind of board, committee, or council seat and has hidden agendas thinking they can change things overnight is not right. I’m running because I want to get a better understanding of policies that affect all the people of Wright County and hopefully help fellow Supervisors make the right decisions for the best interests of all Wright County residents.
How do you plan to approach budgetary decisions as a county supervisor, balancing fiscal responsibility while meeting the needs of various county departments and programs?
Wright County is and always has been very well run! I give credit to every department and all the employees who work in those departments, from the guys taking care of our roads and bridges to everyone in the courthouse. As Supervisors of Wright County, it is our fiduciary responsibility to be good stewards for the taxpayers of Wright County.
What initiatives would you prioritize to promote economic growth and job creation in our county?
I’ve been on the Wright County Economic Development Board for 25 years. One priority is to take care of existing businesses and industries in our area. Over the last 40 years, we have been very successful in promoting and recruiting in the ag industry. Now it is time to look for businesses that complement what we have in the county while supporting our downtown businesses by shopping locally.
How would you engage with citizens to understand their needs and concerns, and how would you advocate for them at the county level?
I would always be accessible to answer questions and concerns.
What is your strategy to build relationships with state and federal officials to advance the interests of our county?
It is tremendously important to be in contact with our State and Federal officials. While with Prairie Energy, I met with our Legislators during Town Halls, at the State Capitol, and even as far as Washington D.C. As a Supervisor, I would continue to keep in contact with our State and Federal Officials on concerns that have an impact on Wright County citizens and businesses.
Richard Echelberger, a Conservative Republican currently employed at Hagie Manufacturing, is hoping to represent District 5. Echelberger has a robust professional and political background, from serving in the military to Dows City Council, American Legion 3rd District Vice Commander, Wright County Commander, Dows Post 523 Adjutant, Treasurer, Chaplain Dows Lions Club and Lay Servant/Speaker Dows UMC Echelberger’s commitment to service is obvious. Echelberger also holds a master's degree in business administration and a bachelor’s in science education. Along with being employed, Echelberger is a Project Manager at Booz-Allen-Hamilton, ARINC, Wright Brother Institute, Center for Rapid Product Development, USAF Air Force Research Laboratories for 14 years and a retired United States Air Force Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (MSgt) of 20 years. Echelberger feels he is uniquely equipped because his approach to working within Wright County's diverse community is built on three pillars: empathy, collaboration, and adaptability.
Why are you running for Wright County Board of Supervisors? What is the one change you hope to bring about in Wright County?
To serve all the people of Wright County, Iowa. Every day in the Air Force I was reminded of our core values; integrity, excellence in all we do, and service before self. Those core values have shaped my life even after leaving military service. As you look at my service, qualifications, and education you can see how I would continue to serve the citizens of Wright County. As with many areas experiencing growth, Wright County faces a shortage of affordable housing options. This can make it difficult for young families, low-income residents, and essential workers to find suitable housing, potentially hindering our economic development and community well-being.
How do you plan to approach budgetary decisions as a county supervisor, balancing fiscal responsibility while meeting the needs of various county departments and programs?
I understand that many of the budgetary items are mandatory; however, where the Supervisors do have discretion and control it is imperative that proper oversight and sound rationale must be used to ensure funds are not improperly used or wasted.
How do you plan to ensure equitable access to public services across different communities within the county?
By working with all the county Supervisors and agencies and with all the county community leaders. Making sure we involve as many in the community as possible to make an informed decision that serves the county and not just a few.
What initiatives would you prioritize to promote economic growth and job creation in our county?
Investing in programs that equip residents with the skills and training needed for in-demand jobs can bolster the local workforce and attract new businesses. This might involve collaborating with educational institutions and businesses to create relevant training programs. English as a Second Language for Adults, the need for the local communities either through the Churches or Libraries or other Federal or State programs is a great need with few resources. ESL can also provide a great way to strengthen our communities in Wright County.
How would you engage with citizens to understand their needs and concerns, and how would you advocate for them at the county level?
I am already very active in my community (Lions Club, American Legion, City Council, and Church). I am a good listener and able to empathize with other’s issues.
What is your strategy to build relationships with state and federal officials to advance the interests of our county?
I have worked with State and Federal officials in the past. I am currently working with State officials on a variety of Veterans' issues.
Voters can cast their ballot for one candidate from each district. Primary elections are on June 4, 2024.
For more information, please contact the Wright County Auditor at (515) 532-2771. This article is part
five of a five-part series highlighting Wright County Supervisor Candidates and does not reflect the views of The Wright County Monitor or sister publications.
