By Linda Schreiber
Democracy is a wonderful thing. Watching it in action is a beautiful experience.
A recent opportunity to visit the Capitol with Rebecca Neades, vice president & director of Public Policy at the Area Chamber, presented unique opportunities to meet with area legislators and policy pundits.
Dave Roederer, executive director of the Iowa Chamber Alliance, a 16-member representation of Iowa’s largest community chambers, and president of Stratavizion, says “Iowa has big problems, but they aren’t so big they can’t be solved.”
He’s right. We do have big problems. But if we, as citizens, legislators, local elected officials and others work collaboratively, cooperatively and creatively, there’s nothing we can’t overcome or do.
Dave also suggests that legislative policies have a 10-year sunset tied to the state’s mandate of redistricting based on population shifts. He’s right. This kind of futuristic thinking is a good idea that requires politicians to justify maintaining status quo or redefining it as changes (in population) are made.
Met briefly with:
Rep. Dave Jacoby (D-District 30)
Rep. Mary Mascher (D-District 77)
Rep. Bruce Hunter (D-District 62)
Rep. Jeff Kauffman (R-District 79)
Senator Tom Rielly (D-District 38)
And, we had an interesting discussion with train representatives who are seeking passenger lines to expand service and opportunities for their industry and individual companies.
End result: Iowa elected officials are easily accessible and very interested in comments from Iowa citizens to help them make good decisions for Iowa’s future.