1152 Hunters Run
Iowa City IA 52246
December 21, 1998

Tom Slockett, Johnson County Auditor
Kim Painter, Johnson County Recorder
Tom Kriz, Johnson County Treasurer
913 S. Dubuque Street
Iowa City IA 52240

I applaud your decision to appoint a person to fill the unexpired term of Joe Bolkcom on the Johnson County Board of Supervisors rather than call a costly election for the position. I believe the voters expect you to fulfill your obligation to appoint the most qualified candidate.

I am writing to recommend applicant Tom Carsner to fill the remaining two years of Joe's term. In preparation for his run for the Board in June 1998, Tom studied issues and attended Board meetings. He was not just a single issue candidate. He brought a knowledge of the many, varied issues with which the Board deals. In his first bid for public office, he had the third highest vote total in a four-person primary race for the Board of Supervisors.

In the time since the primary, Tom has continued to attend meetings, participate in county government, and serve on boards and committees. He continues his activism with Environmental Advocates. And he serves on the Johnson County United Way Planning and Allocation Committee. He continues to be familiar with both the environmental and human service needs of citizens of Johnson County.

I know that Tom would continue Joe Bolkcom's commitment, as well as the commitment of those who elected Joe, to participative and open county government. He would bring a strong commitment to planned county growth and economic development. Tom would be a strong advocate for maintaining Johnson County's high quality social service programs. He would also continue, as Joe has, to represent citizens of Iowa City as the only Supervisor who resides within city limits.

I encourage your strong consideration for the appointment of Tom Carsner as Johnson County Supervisor.

Sincerely

Patricia Vunderink
351-4961 or 335-2038