By EMILIE NELSON
Messenger staff writer
Mark Campbell announced Tuesday that he is seeking a seat on the Webster County Board of Supervisors as a Democrat.
Campbell, of rural Otho, filed for the seat in District 2, which includes the townships of Fulton, Elkhorn, Otho-Pleasant Valley, Clay-Roland, Dayton-Burnside, Sumner-Webster-Yell-Hardin, Gowrie and Lost Grove in southern Webster County and the communities of Otho, Coalville, Lehigh, Dayton, Stratford, Moorland, Roelyn, Callender, Gowrie, Burnside, Harcourt and Lanyon.
The seat is presently held by Democrat Eddie Peterson, of Harcourt, who said Monday he would not seek re-election.
Campbell said the need for continued support of the North Central Ag Industrial Park, existing businesses and economic development within the county influenced his decision to run.
"I also want to make sure District 2 has a voice in Webster County," Campbell said. "It is the largest district and has more drainage districts and farm to market roads than any other district in Webster County. District 2 is key to supporting or growing region. The public safety and libraries within these smaller communities help contribute to the quality of life in a rural community."
If elected to the board, Campbell said he would continue to work with public safety and county employees as well as continue support for the Ag Park.
Campbell currently serves as the vice chairman of the Webster County Board of Public Health, represents the Sheriff's Department on the Webster County Compensation Board and is a county representative to the Fort Dodge Parks and Recreation Board.
He sought the District 2 seat in 2008, coming in second to Peterson in the Democratic primary.
Campbell is a Webster County native and is owner of Amigos in Fort Dodge. He and wife Krissann live near Otho.
Republican Todd Clark has also filed candidacy for the seat. Primary elections are set for June 5; the general election will be on Nov.6.
Contact Emilie Nelson at (515) 573-2141 or emilie@messengernews.net