Robert Vokoun. TAMA-GRUNDY PUBLISHING FILE PHOTO

Ahead of the June 4 Primary Election, Tama-Grundy Publishing sent questionnaires to all candidates running in contested races for the Tama County Board of Supervisors including those running for the Republican nomination in District 3 which includes townships of Spring Creek, Crystal, and Perry, and parts of far northern Carlton (excluding Garwin) and Howard. The district encompasses the communities of Gladbrook and Traer. Robert V Vokoun is one of three candidates for the Republican nomination. No candidate filed paperwork for the Democratic primary in the race. The winner of the June 4 Republican primary will run in the General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. The office of Tama County Supervisors District 3 is a 2-year term.

Robert V. Vokoun

Age: 56

Residence location: Gladbrook, Iowa

Profession: Retired Police Officer after over 37 Years of service; self-employed farm, maintenance, and construction; currently still active volunteer firefighter after 32 years of service

Education: Graduated North Tama High School Class of 1986; AAA Degree in Police Science

Family: Kelly; daughters Hannah (Norfolk, Nebraska) and Rachael (Ankeny, Iowa), and step-son Cameron (United States Marines)

1) Why do you want to be a county supervisor? What is your motivation for running?

I have had an interest in county government since high school. I have always been drawn to opportunities that allow me to serve other people and the community. Being a county supervisor is something that I have always wanted to do, and now have the time to do so after retirement. I was born and raised here in Tama County and have owned property here for most of my life. As a property owner and a parent, I want to keep Tama County a great place to live and raise a family. I have experience in finance and over 38 years in community service necessary to be a good and effective county supervisor. I currently serve on the Tama County 911 Board and have for some time. I am motivated by the opportunity to lead and contribute to the economic growth of Tama County. This is also an opportunity to learn new things and take on new challenges. There are many opportunities for Tama County to grow stronger. Working together with the citizens and property owners, the possibilities are endless.

2) Have you previously run for elected office? If so, for what office(s)?

A number of years ago I was a candidate for LeGrand City Council. At the same time, I was elected to the Parish Council at St. Henry’s Catholic Church. During that tenure on the parish council I served on the finance committee and as chairman.

3) What distinguishes you from the other candidates in your primary race?

I am very confident that I am the best candidate for County Supervisor in District 3. I have over 38 years of public service and have been involved in city and county government during all of that time. Since I was a teenager, I have volunteered on numerous community projects and have served on several boards and committees. My background and people skills are applicable for this position. I am very motivated and always try to exceed my goals.

4) What changes, if any, do you believe need to be made in Tama County government?

Changes can always be made in County Government. There is always room for improvement no matter what office or organization. Unfortunately, not everyone will always be happy with decisions that are made. You will never be able to make one hundred percent of the people happy all of the time. I feel that we could promote more community participation. I like to maintain a close relationship with the citizens and the general public. Together, problems and barriers could be addressed and working together, solutions can be made.

5) What challenges does Tama County face today that you would like to see addressed by the county board of supervisors? If elected, what would you do to help address those challenges?

Tama County will always face challenges as do several other counties. Property taxes and the county budget are always one of the biggest challenges. Working together with all county departments and department heads using basic common sense and exploring all aspects of every issue, we can present to the citizens and the public the most efficient spending for the good of all.

6) Following the 2024 election, do you believe the county needs to return to a three-member board of supervisors? Why or why not?

Having two supervisors rather than three is an increase between $150,000 and $200,000 annually when salaries, benefits, etc are figured into the equation. I have had very few people inform me that they approve of adding two more supervisors. The majority of people who have talked to me feel that three supervisors can adequately perform the duties required. Some feel that the county could possibly save money with five instead of three. I personally do not approve of five supervisors due to the increase in costs to the county. I am willing to listen to those people, their ideas and recommendations and explore all aspects. However, I certainly do not want to look at cutting employees, services and wages in order to make five supervisors work instead of three. This is not a decision made by the supervisors alone, but rather a decision made by the voters. I will abide by the wishes of the voters of Tama County. If they wish to continue with five supervisors, then we will work together for a solution for the good of all.

7) The development of utility scale wind/solar energy projects in Tama County continues to be a divisive issue. What is your position and why regarding A) a possible wind and/or solar energy moratorium – temporary or otherwise, and B) property rights as it relates to utility scale wind and solar energy projects?

Wind and solar projects in Tama County continue to be a topic of discussion. There are a number of people that have their own wind or solar energy on their property to help power their home or operation and help offset energy costs from their local utility company. Most people are OK with these however some do not care for the utility scale projects for various reasons. A moratorium on wind in Tama County at this point would not stop the construction of the Salt Creek project as it has already been permitted. As a county, we also have to consider the possibilities of a lawsuit and more cost to the county. Currently, there is litigation in Tama County concerning wind, so that will delay moving forward at this time to make any changes or additions to our current wind ordinance. I feel that we need to look at our current wind ordinance together with the citizens of Tama County as well as the energy companies and developers. There has to be a discussion about all aspects of these projects and everyone needs to work together to come up with a solution that is best for all. Currently, the solar ordinance is being worked on and no utility scale solar projects would receive permits for construction until the ordinance is completed and approved.

We can’t be afraid of the future. Regulations should not be made so restricting so that nothing can be done. I respect the rights of the property owners who choose to have a utility scale project on their property as well as those who do not. We also have to consider the acreage owners that may have a project near their property and their concerns. It is not unlawful to have these projects on your property. I do not feel I should dictate to my neighbor what they can do on their own property when it is legal.

Again, we have to look at all aspects and work together for a solution. The wind project in Tama County will generate 150 million dollars over 30 years to the county, townships, and schools. Together, we need to work and decide how we move forward to the future from here. Do we allow more utility scale wind and solar projects in Tama County or do we not? Together, can we come up with more ideas to generate good revenue for the county? These choices and many others we can make together and the possibilities are endless.

8) Why should people vote for you on June 4, 2024?

I have a very strong desire to serve all of the citizens of Tama County to the best of my ability and to provide the best public service possible.