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.

The Best Lawyers in America
2006-2026

The Best Lawyers in America

Lawyer of the Year, Real Estate Law, Des Moines, 2025

Forty under 40 Alum of the Year--2017

Chambers USA
America's Leading Business Lawyers, Real Estate, 2004-2025

Great Plains Super Lawyers
Real Estate, 2009-2025

CITYVIEW's Business Journal
Honoree

"21 from 2021: Business People Who Made a Difference"

Drake Law Review
Editor-in-Chief, 1986-1987

0-5 years

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors' Bureau
Board Member and Former Chair, 2005-Present

Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
Board Member and Former Chair, 2005-Present

American Bar Association
State and Local Government Section
Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section


Iowa State Bar Association

Real Estate and Title Law Section
Environmental and Natural Resources Law Section
Government Practice Section


Polk County Bar Association


Iowa Commercial Real Estate Association


ABI Leadership Iowa--2010-2011


Iowa Commercial Real Estate Association
Board of Directors, 2006-2008

Mayor, City of Urbandale, Iowa
2005-present

Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors' Bureau
Board Member and Former Chair, 2005-Present

City of Urbandale

City Council Member, 2000-2005
Planning and Zoning Commission, 1995-2000