Clive Mayor John Edwards will face a challenge from current council member Michael McCoy.
The Des Moines Register asked each candidate to respond to questions on why they’re running and the issues facing their city. Their answers may be lightly edited for clarity or length.
The election is Nov. 4.
John Edwards (incumbent)
Current occupation: Professor and associate dean, Drake University Law School
Education background: Juris doctor, University of Missouri-Kansas City
Where did you grow up? Kennett, Missouri
Political experience: Clive mayor since 2022. Clive City Council, 1995-2021, 20 years as mayor pro tempore. Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, Surface Transportation Program Funding subcommittee. Metro Advisory Council since 2005, chair 2018-2021. Vice-chair Central Iowa Water Works. Chair of the Board of Trustees for Des Moines Metropolitan Transit Authority, 1997-98 and 2003-04.
Age: 72
Michael McCoy
Current occupation: Chief executive cfficer, Metro Waste Authority/co-founder Clive Greenbelt goat program
Education background: Bachelor’s degree and master’s in international development — Iowa State University
Where did you grow up? West Des Moines
Political experience: I currently serve on the Clive City Council, where I focus on responsible growth, fiscal stewardship, and quality-of-life improvements. I also represent Clive on regional boards and commissions, including the DART Commission and the Wastewater Reclamation Authority, helping improve services and keep costs fair for residents. Member of City of Clive-West Des Moines schools collaboration committee.
Age: 55
Why are you running?
John Edwards: Another term as mayor will enable me to continue our successes and guide the city forward as a collaborative regional leader. Clive residents and business owners love being in a city that offers essential services and amenities they value: great neighborhoods, wonderful parks and trails, outstanding public safety resources, well-maintained infrastructure, a committed staff, and effective leadership from elected officials. With 30 years experience as Clive mayor and council member, I have been an integral part of an innovative and forward-thinking city government. My record of collaboration with colleagues, staff, and metro neighbors shows how we can make a great place even better.
Michael McCoy: Clive is more than a city, it is our home. I am running for mayor because our community is at an important crossroads. As we grow, we need steady leadership that welcomes progress while protecting the character and quality of life that make Clive special. Through my service on the City Council I have learned to be careful with taxpayer dollars, to listen to neighbors, and to plan ahead for the future. I want to preserve what we love about Clive including our safe neighborhoods, strong police and fire, and beautiful green spaces, while guiding thoughtful growth and redevelopment that keeps our city a place we are all proud to call home.
What is the most important issue facing your city and what would you do to address it?
John Edwards: Issues related to the next budget cycle will likely be the most pressing concern in the months ahead. Finding sufficient resources to address street and infrastructure needs is a high priority. Costs are increasing but revenue growth has been capped. The Legislature is again considering property tax reform. Cities and counties throughout Iowa, including Clive, will be working with their legislative and other partners to provide input on what is needed to best meet the needs of governments to serve their residents and businesses. Highlighting city legislative priorities is part of that process. Bills that could impact Clive will be identified and monitored throughout the legislative session.
Michael McCoy: One of the most pressing issues is managing growth wisely, ensuring that development benefits all without eroding the character, infrastructure, and livability that make Clive special.To address this, I would:
How would you balance a desire to lower property taxes with a need to provide resources to your city?
John Edwards: Clive has maintained one of the lowest property tax rates in the metro, reducing them by 2% two years ago, which followed eight years with no change. Although we brought the rate down, Clive citizens and businesses still have high expectations for city services and amenities. Clive delivers on those expectations as evidenced by Clive’s ranking as the top U.S. city for resident confidence in local government (Best in Governance Award; blog.polco.us). We balance our budget each year by following a well-developed strategic plan, using sound short- and long-term financial planning, and having exceptional staff committed to a robust fiscal policy with careful monitoring of revenue and expenses.
Michael McCoy: This is a critical tension, but it’s one that responsible leadership can navigate. My approach would include:
Kevin Baskins covers jobs and the economy for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at kbaskins@registermedia.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: John Edwards faces council member Michael McCoy in Clive mayor reelection bid
Reporting by Kevin Baskins, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
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