Meet the candidates running for Granger City Council in 2023

Allison Ullmann, Des Moines Register
·2 min read

One candidate — incumbent Mayor Tony James — is running for Granger mayor.

Three candidates are vying for three seats on the Granger City Council, including incumbent Jodi Bermel, incumbent Scott Brandt and Jerid Shryock.

The Perry Chief asked each candidate to respond to questions on why they're running and the issues their district/community is facing. Their answers may be lightly edited for clarity or length.

James, Bermel and Shryock did not respond to the questionnaire.

The election is Nov. 7.

More: Here's what you need to know for Election Day in the Des Moines metro

Scott Brandt

Scott Brandt
Scott Brandt

AGE: 40

GREW UP: Grew up in Mason City. Have lived in Granger for 11 years in December 2023.

CURRENT HOME: Granger

EDUCATION: BA, University of Northern Iowa, double major, Finance and Real Estate. MBA, Upper Iowa University, Management major.

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Have been on the Granger City Council for the past four years. On Board of Directors, Stonebridge Church.

Why are you running?

Scott Brandt: To continue the progress that we have made over the past four years attracting economic development to Granger to support the growth of our community. Infrastructure improvements are needed (new water tower, street widening project, public safety building) as well as providing amenities to our growing community. Commercial tax revenue is key to supporting the infrastructure needs of our community over the next 10 years.

What is the biggest issue facing your community and how would you address it?

Scott Brandt: Funding to support needed infrastructure projects and provide amenities to our growing community. In the last five years there have been more than 200 new houses built in Granger. The city council approved the hiring of a city administrator who has worked with developers, local officials, and business owners to attract businesses to Granger. Significant progress has been made with lots selling in our existing business park off Highway 17. The city has annexed over 500 acres which will encompass three new developments and triple our existing tax base, taking the tax burden off our taxpayers.

What is your vision for growth in the community?

Scott Brandt: As the metro continues to grow and looking at the growth in Grimes, Granger is the next logical spot for growth. Granger needs to attract a good mix of commercial businesses to support the needs of our growth community. Work with developers and builders to provide housing options for all income levels.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Three candidates running for Granger City Council in 2023