December 26, 1998

To whom it may concern;

I am writing this letter of recommendation for a man of tested ability, sound judgment, and keen perception. He is possessed of a fine character He is a sincere friend. and. a devoted worker. These are some of the attributes which qualify Norm Bickford for the office of Johnson County Supervisor that you are about to fill.

Mr. Bickfords' record of service to the City of West Branch has been with distinction as a member of the Planning and Zoning Board as well as being an elected member of the City Council. While holding office in these two positions he has proven to the people of our community that he is capable, qualified, responsible, and a very reliable person. I speak from experience. I have known Mr. Bickford for 20 years. When he says "yes" he means "yes"; and when he says "no" he means "no". He is never on the fence. He has raised the "prestige bar" when ever he is involved in community programs. He comes from the "common sense" approach, which have too often in our society, been at a premium. He has been a spokesman for what is best for the people of our city. I believe that to be significant, in that he has always served in positions where he could help people. The desire to do so must run very deep in the grain of his personality and beliefs. I do not believe that much more can be said of any man.

Thomas D. Hildreth
West Branch City Council