ON THE BALLOT: Washington County unopposed

Name: Dan Widmer

Address: 1025 N. 3rd Ave., Washington

Phone: 319-653-5174

Email: danwidmer1957@gmail.com

Family: I am married with two adult married children and one grandson

Occupation: Washington County Auditor and Commissioner of Elections

Political Experience: I have served as Washington County Auditor and Commissioner of Elections since January 2012

Why are you running for office?

I find the position of county auditor and commissioner of elections to be exciting, energizing and challenging. Also, it provides me with the opportunity to give something back to Washington County where I have lived my entire life. I feel that my experience as Washington County auditor and commissioner of elections provides me with a good perspective on how county government functions.

What are your priorities if elected?

I would like to make the complexities of county government, such as taxes, elections, and county funding more understandable for the citizens of Washington County. I will also strive to carry out the duties of county auditor and commissioner of elections in a manner that is both efficient and fiscally responsible.

Can you explain what your office does?

My duties include, among other things, clerk for the Board of Supervisors, commissioner of elections for all public elections held in Washington County, custodian of election returns and records, county registrar of voters, county financial officer, custodian of county facilities, and county budget manager. For a more complete and detailed list of my duties go to https://iowaauditors.org/about/auditors_responsibilities/

Can you give an example of a time you have made a positive impact on the county through your position?

Local, state and federal elections are coming under more and more attack from adversaries of the United States. In response to such threats and while still maintaining a careful eye on expenses, the auditor's office has responded with careful and thoughtful investments in new and up-to-date equipment to combat potential cybersecurity attacks. Also, training of staff and poll workers has increased in direct correlation to the increase in election regulations and voter expectations. Finally, we have reached out to voters to provide training in an effort to help them become more familiar with the election process. All of these things have been done in order that voters can be assured that elections in Washington County are conducted fairly, honestly, and in accordance with the law.

Is there anything you hope to change/accomplish in the future?

I would like to like to play a part in establishing a sound and responsible long-term capital project plan for Washington County including the manner in which projects would be funded. I hold the belief that if done correctly, capital budgeting can provide a valuable blueprint for long-term success on long-term projects.