As legislative counsel, I represent clients before the Iowa legislature, governor, and regulatory agencies. I perform lobbyist functions at the state capitol. I monitor, propose, advocate, draft, and sometimes oppose legislation. During law school, legislative tracking at a law firm piqued my interest in public policy. Today, public policy and public service remain embedded in my approach. If I can help make good public policy for the state of Iowa through my role in representing my clients, that's what I want to do. My work as mayor of Urbandale, Iowa, since 2005 has introduced me to many of the players in all sectors of state government. Building trust and a reputation for integrity are key.

Relationships are the heart of public policy. Working with legislators, you're showing there's a true need for the legislative change and real reasons why. I pride myself on finding the creative solution. There's not a cookie-cutter approach to everything. Depending on the circumstances, any number of issues could come up that you have to really think through to accomplish the best result for the client. As mayor, I do what's in the best interest of our city and our citizens. That's what I bring to legislative work - doing what's in the best interest of our clients and what's in the best interest of the state of Iowa too.