Education funding was a major topic Monday evening as candidates for the Iowa House took part in a general election forum at Mount Pleasant Community High School.
The forum was hosted by the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance Government Relations Committee and the Mount Pleasant Community School District. House District 87 candidates Tom O’Donnell and Republican State Representative Jeff Shipley participated, along with District 95 candidate Carrie Trevino. Republican Representative Taylor Collins, who currently represents District 95, was unable to attend.
School funding was among the issues discussed, including supplemental state aid and Iowa’s Education Savings Account program.
O’Donnell and Trevino argued taxpayer dollars should be directed to public schools, where they said spending is subject to state oversight and auditing. Shipley defended the ESA program, saying it gives parents greater ability to choose the educational setting they believe is best for their children.
Candidates also discussed workforce development, including preparing local workers for available jobs and attracting and retaining quality jobs in Henry County.
Property tax reform was another topic, with discussion focused on the effect state policy can have on local taxpayers.
Voters will have another opportunity to hear from the District 87 candidates next month. KILJ will host O’Donnell and Shipley live Tuesday, October 20 at 7 p.m. on 105.5 FM.
KILJ’s October candidate forum series begins next Tuesday, October 6, with the Henry County Supervisor race, followed by the Henry County Attorney candidates October 13.
A potential October 27 forum involving District 95 remains on hold.