By Quentin Misiag, Chicago resident & Iowa City native
The recent resignation of Andrew Dunn, the Iowa City Council member for District C, means Iowa Citians have an opportunity to elect a new generational voice at City Hall.
During the upcoming Feb. 4 primary election, I encourage District C residents living downtown and in the Northside neighborhood to cast their vote for Ross Nusser, a lifelong Iowa Citian and community champion.
I’ve known Ross since 2012, when he took a chance on me and hired me as an intern at Lepic-Kroeger Realtors after my senior year of high school at Iowa City West High. Throughout my summer experience, Ross guided me not only through the ropes of real estate but also opened my eyes to the many great aspects of Iowa City, including our rich cultural and social services sectors.
Since then, I have witnessed Ross’s steady hand and leadership take hold throughout the community. From co-founding the widely successful Urban Acres Real Estate company to developing several cornerstone projects, including the recently opened Market House development (home to the critically acclaimed restaurant, The Webster), and serving on the Johnson County Comprehensive Plan Committee and with The Housing Fellowship.
While I applaud the other candidates in this race for throwing their hat in the ring, Ross’s resume speaks for itself. As lawmakers in Des Moines continue to hinder how Iowa cities can generate revenue, the Iowa City City Council will need to think creatively about how to maintain existing services and grow into new areas. One important area of focus will need to be generating new sources of revenue for the city and I strongly believe that Ross’s deep bench of connections that he has gained through his real estate career will be crucial. Iowa City is just one of three Iowa communities with a gold-standard AAA bond rating from Moody’s (the others being West Des Moines and Cedar Falls).
His more than 14 years of experience working with nonprofits is just one exemplary transferable skill set he’ll bring to City Hall, particularly as it pertains to financial stability. A proven problem solver, I’ve witnessed firsthand how his calm demeanor and level headedness has generated consensus among many groups and perspectives.
As proud Northside residents, Ross and his family (including kids that are enrolled through the excellent Iowa CIty Community School District) eat, sleep and breathe our community. A believer in responsible leadership, he will prioritize affordable housing, expanded mental and behavioral health resources, support for those in need, and local food initiatives.
On or before Feb. 4, I encourage District C residents to vote for Ross Nusser for City Council. His lifelong experiences will ensure a bright future for all Iowa Citians for generations to come.
