Meet the candidate running for West Des Moines City Council Ward 2 in the 2023 election
One candidate — incumbent Greg Hudson — is running for one seat representing the Ward 2 on the West Des Moines City Council.
The Des Moines Register asked each candidate to respond to questions on why they're running and the issues their community is facing. Their answers may be lightly edited for clarity or length.
The election is Nov. 7.
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Greg Hudson
AGE: 41
GREW UP: Manchester, Missouri
CURRENT HOME: West Des Moines
EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in history, Truman State University; master's in education, Truman State University
POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: West Des Moines City Council, 2020-present
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Why are you running?
Greg Hudson: During my tenure, I've met with countless residents to hear their thoughts and concerns, all while helping to implement changes that make our city better. I've been proud to vote for and support one of the most important projects in central Iowa in recent years: the MidAmerican Energy Co. RecPlex, owned and operated by the city of West Des Moines. In addition, during my first term, the City Council proactively cut the city tax rate twice, helped revitalize Valley Junction, and provided more quality of life amenities throughout our community. I’m running for a second term because I have the knowledge and experience to further build upon these great successes.
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What is the biggest issue facing your community and how would you address it?
Greg Hudson: During uncertain economic times, ensuring that all city residents can enjoy a safe, prosperous, and affordable community is a top priority. West Des Moines has been growing steadily for decades, and I’m proud to say that our city has provided a positive climate for our current and prospective residents and small businesses; however, our city must prioritize keeping the older parts of our historic city safe and vibrant as well. For the last four years, we have worked to provide these areas with support and attention, and I hope to continue on this positive path.
What is your vision for growth in the community?
Greg Hudson: The city of West Des Moines has a population that has recently passed 70,000, and it is important that we continue to be a destination for those who want a safe, dynamic, and prosperous community. For the last four years, I’ve worked diligently to build relationships with community, business, civic, and school district leaders. It is through valuable partnerships and collaboration that the city can continue to grow in a smart, sustainable way, setting up West Des Moines for continued success. Smart, sustainable growth includes being thoughtful as the city continues to expand to the south and west. It also includes providing more opportunities for safe, affordable housing options throughout the city.
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How would you manage growth while balancing concerns on sustainability, like water use at the Microsoft data centers, and affordable housing?
Greg Hudson: Over the past several years, West Des Moines Water Works has been focused on sustainability, and even though they have never exceeded their budgeted water usage, data centers in the area have committed to using less water. Also, during my first term in office, the city has worked to expand affordable housing options, through community partnerships, grants, and incentives. I hope to continue these efforts during the next four years.
Phillip Sitter covers suburban growth and development for the Des Moines Register. Phillip can be reached via email at psitter@gannett.com. He is on Twitter @pslifeisabeauty.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Greg Hudson is running for West Des Moines City Council Ward 2 2023
