(Spirit Lake)– A local banker is announcing today (Tues.) he’s running for the seat in the Iowa State House that is currently occupied by Mike May, who is not seeking re-election once his current term expires.
Jeff Smith of Okoboji tells KUOO news there are several factors that led to his decision to run, adding he’s always been interested in politics. He says he’s proud to be from this district and would like to have the opportunity to represent it in Des Moines.
Smith is a native of northwest Iowa. He graduated from Iowa State University before returning to his family’s farming operation. Soon after he moved to Spirit Lake where he’s worked at a local bank. Smith says he feels those hands-on experiences in the community have shown him what tools are needed for a business to succeed and what it takes to create jobs.
In addition to economic development and job creation, Smith says he would also focus on Iowa’s education system.
He says getting a handle on the state’s budget and spending is also on his agenda.
Smith is a member and past-president of the Spirit Lake Noon Kiwanis club. He’s also served on the board of directors of the Spirit Lake MainSail Chamber of Commerce, the Zoning Board and the Youth Athletic Association.
Jeff and his family attend the Spirit Lake United Methodist Church.
