Election season is near.
Recently passed Senate File 75 required Johnson County to adopt a supervisor district system for its elections. Only candidates who live in a specific district can run for the seat, and only residents within the district can vote.
The full impact of the law will be felt in the 2026 election, with all five supervisor districts up for grabs. Initially, only Jon Green, District 2 and V Fixmer-Oraiz were slated for election this year. Now, 10 democrat candidates are on the primary ballot across five districts, including incumbents Lisa Green-Douglass, undefined, Rod Sullivan and Mandi Remington.
With the Tuesday, June 2 primary election quickly approaching, the Iowa City Press-Citizen asked candidates for the Johnson County Board of Supervisors about their priorities, qualifications, and vision for the county’s future.
The Press-Citizen sent questions to all area candidates. Their answers have been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Here’s what you need to know about the District 3 Johnson County Board of Supervisors candidate on the democratic ballot:
Sue Dvorsky
Age: 70
Hometown: Barrington, Illinois
Current Residence: Coralville
Occupation: Retired Iowa City Community School District teacher. Current volunteer for the Coralville Community Food Pantry.
Education: Bachelor of Science, University of Iowa, 1976; Master’s in Special Education, University of Iowa, 1992
Political Experience: Chair of the Iowa Democratic Party. Director of Women’s Engagement for the Hillary Clinton campaign. I have been engaged in local, state and national politics since 1986. I have no previous elected experience.
Why are you running for a seat on the Johnson County Board of Supervisors?
Dvorsky: The new system of voting for districts will change the nature of the debates and decision-making at the Board of Supervisors. Our current majorities are reached by alignment of political objectives. Starting with a new board in 2027, to reach a [three-vote] majority for a measure, conversation, collaboration, and compromise will be required. This will [heighten] listening and negotiating skills. I see this as an opportunity to expand citizen input in the municipalities, communities, and unincorporated areas across the county. I believe that a system of districts will enhance supervisors’ abilities to become knowledgeable about residents and communities in their district. Diverse opinions will challenge and broaden our thinking, and that will be healthy for sectors.
What is the most pressing issue Johnson County is facing? If elected, how will you work to address it?
Dvorsky: Three of these five seats will be up for re-election again in two years. I am prioritizing governance that focuses on continuity, transparency and accountability. I believe it is the task of elected officials to represent their constituents’ views, rather than their own. I’m especially interested in the budgeting process itself. How do we prioritize and spend now that ARPA funds have been disbursed and state and federal dollars are dwindling? The distinction between what we need and what we want will be a long-term focus of discussion. The investigation of a county administrator is part of that conversation.
What are two or three other issues outside of your top priority that you hope to address if elected?
Dvorsky: I want to take an in-depth look at how we plan and fund the ongoing maintenance of the programs and facilities we currently manage. Ideally, that review and updated plan would involve a wide range of partners and stakeholders from across sectors, in all parts of the county.
A bond referendum for a new sheriff’s office and jail may be on the November ballot. The project is anticipated to cost $90 to $100 million. Do you support building the new facility and why?
Dvorsky: Unqualified YES. I believe that a single issue, ‘clean’ bond with clear language, will earn approval from the voters. The rationale is clear, and the proposal is sound. This issue has been dissected, discussed and wrestled with for years, and it is well past time to move forward. As I speak with residents in District 3, I find widespread consensus on this issue.
This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Meet the District 3 Democratic Johnson County supervisor candidate
Reporting by Jessica Rish, Iowa City Press-Citizen / Iowa City Press-Citizen
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
