“What did you learn running for City Council?” is a question I’ve gotten a lot lately. It’s an honest question. My answer is usually, “A lot!” I learned how many great citizens live in Cedar Falls. Ward 4 will always hold a special place in my heart. I learned how terrible voter turnout is. Less than 20% of registered voters participate. I learned that the folks who are the most vocal about keeping local elections welcoming and nonpartisan are actually the least welcoming, most partisan themselves. I was shocked to see people who publicly endorsed my opponent in charge of picking questions at our debates. I was amazed that current city staff and council members, who claim to “stay neutral” had signs in their yard for certain candidates. Our city deserves better, and I have begun to wonder if our form of government in Cedar Falls has led to abnormal levels of divisiveness and partisanship. Bottom line, I learned a lot and have no regrets about running. Thank you to those who supported me, and I trust with more voter engagement and openness to new ideas we can all be excited about what is ahead. “The best is yet to come!”
Gabe Groothuis, Cedar Falls
