Jones Co. Republicans hold annual spring fundraiser

     The Jones County Republican Central Committee held their annual spring fundraiser on Thursday, April 24, at the Citizens State Bank Youth Development Center in Monticello. There were roughly 90 people present on a beautiful spring evening.

   A very good meal was had by all with several informative speakers making comments. Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks made comments regarding her recent attendance at a conference on AI and the energy/power requirements that will need to be met in the future to support the data centers planned to be built around the country including here in Eastern Iowa. She also updated those in attendance regarding current activity and work being done in Washington, D.C., including tax reform.

   State Representative Steve Bradley and State Senator Carrie Koelker shared comments on the recent Iowa Legislative session highlighting several bills they have supported and worked to get passed. They continue to work on the current state budget that will total around 9.4 billion dollars. They also emphasized the excellent working relationship they have working together to represent the people in eastern Iowa.

   The keynote speaker for the evening was Lieutenant Governor Chris Gearhart Cournoyer. She spent time sharing her background leading up to her current position and updated those in attendance on several areas she is focusing her attention on. Lieutenant Governor Cournoyer discussed her work on leading “Empower Rural Iowa,” leadership on STEM committee work, economic development and friendlier and affordable living in Iowa, maintaining our states strong fiscal position, low unemployment, our pro-business environment, the disaster relief, and hands-free bills that have been passed and signed by the Governor. She also briefly discussed the Governors’ announcement not to seek an additional term.

   The meeting was adjourned shortly thereafter.