Altoona City Council Candidate: Elizabeth Burns-Thompson
I was raised on my family farm in eastern Iowa, it was that same small-town charm that initially drew me to Altoona. As a resident and homeowner in the community for the past five years, I’ve been involved with the Altoona 150 Celebration, Altoona Chamber, Altoona Area Young Professionals, Altoona Kid’s Café, Southeast Polk Ag Advisory Committee, Altoona Lions Club, the Ss. John & Paul Young Adults Group, and most recently announced a run for the Altoona City Council. In addition, I hold leadership roles within the ISU Alumni Association Young Alumni Council, American Agricultural Law Association, and Young Professional in Agriculture. Outside of my professional and community commitments, you’ll find me traveling, gardening, and tackling the occasional Pinterest project.
Question #1: Why are you running for office?
A resident and homeowner in the community for the past five years, I’ve dedicated myself to supporting a variety of initiatives, including the Altoona 150 Celebration, Altoona Chamber, Altoona Area Young Professionals, Altoona Kid’s Café, Southeast Polk Ag Advisory Committee, Altoona Lions Club, and the Ss. John & Paul Young Adults Group. I think that this role on the city council is just the next step in how I can continue to serve our community.
Question #2: What will you be contributing to this role that will provide a positive impact?
I grew up on my family’s crop and livestock farm here in Iowa, so I’m no stranger to hard work. I’ve taken that “get the job done” work ethic and passion of giving back to something greater than yourself into everything I do. As your councilwoman I vow to constantly explore ways to improve, be fair and open-minded to all sides of an issue, and provide a strong voice for the residents and business that make our community great.