Matthew Hodges was raised in Carroll, having left the community for just a few years and serving as a member of the National Guard’s 767 Engineer Unit of Camp Dodge for part of that time. He was deployed to Iraq for a year in 2004, and found his way back home about seven years ago because of a young son and step-daughter. Hodges says he knows from experience that Carroll is a great place to raise kids and he wants to be a part in planning a future for them and their families as the next at-large Carroll City Council member. Hodges is already a familiar face at those meetings.
Hodges wants more of a say, for himself and for others, on what goes on in the city. He wants to make sure everybody’s voices are being heard, and if elected, he would urge more people to bring forward their viewpoints, whether they are for or against a project or position. There is a lot going on right now, which he says is a good thing, and he believes he will be able to have an impact on all of the current issues, such as the sidewalk regulation changes that have been raised at recent meetings.
The biggest issue, the library, may be officially decided at the same time a new council member is elected on Tuesday, Aug. 1, but Hodges is a vocal proponent for the project. He currently sits on the Parks and Recreation Board for the city and sees a lot of positive changes are ahead in many areas, including the addition of trails, the recreation district and park upgrades. Having served his country, Hodges says this is another way he can help serve others, just from behind a desk this time, so to speak. He adds that one of the most important things he will add to the mix is the ability to listen.
Hodges is one of three candidates running for the at-large seat on the Carroll City Council in the upcoming Aug. 1 special election. Also running are Ron “Woody” Beyer and LaVern Dirkx, who is the interim councilmember. Absentee voting is open now at the Carroll County Courthouse and will be available right up to 11 a.m. on Election Day. Polls will open at noon on Aug. 1 and will close at 8 p.m. Anyone who lives within the Carroll City limits can cast a vote in this election. More information can be found included below, and we will bring you an interview with Dirkx in an upcoming broadcast.
_____________________________
PRECINCT POLLING PLACE
Carroll Ward One St. John Lutheran Church, 801 E. 18th
Carroll Ward Two First United Methodist Church, 1621 N. Main
Carroll Ward Three Courthouse Meeting Room, 114 E. 6th
Carroll Ward Four First United Methodist Church, 1621 N. Main
