Rusty Andrews says the Fort Madison City Council must do more to encourage young people to remain in or come back to the city after they graduate.
He is one of three men vying for the alderman at-large seat on the panel during the November 5 General Election.
Andrews says he entered the race as another way to give back to his community.
He already serves on several committees, including the Tri-State Rodeo and the North Lee County Historical Society.
Andrews, who is 30-years-old, says he brings a much-needed, younger perspective to the race.
You have to keep this city strong so it lasts for the next generation
“Look out for the younger generation,” says Andrews, “younger generation does not really have a voice. They don’t get out, they don’t speak. They don’t make their voice heard, so hopefully I can be that avenue to get the younger generation involved and speak out about what is going on in the community.”
He says it is important for the city to help create opportunities for his generation.
“We need to give the younger crowd a reason to stay here,” says Andrews. “Too many of them go off, elsewhere, to school and they don’t come back. They say there is nothing to do in Fort Madison. We need events, places for people to go.”
Andrews says Fort Madison must put more of an emphasis on improving its infrastructure, especially its streets, parks and sewers.
“You have to keep this city strong so it lasts for the next generation.”
He says he will also look into restoring some of the youth sporting events that have disappeared over the years if elected.