Another candidate has announced his intentions to file papers on March 5th, to run for the Cass County Board of Supervisors in District 2. Mark O’Brien announced Saturday he intends to run for the seat being vacated at the end of the year by current District 2 Supervisor Gaylord Schelling, who has decided not to run for re-election. O’Brien joins Pat McCurdy in his bid to claim the seat in the June Primary. There is also a two-man race for the District 3 Supervisor’s seat held by Mark Wedemeyer, who is not running for re-election. The candidates include Dana Halder and John P. Hartkopf.

In a press release, O’Brien said “As a lifelong resident of Cass County, I feel I would be a respected voice for my fellow constituents due to the years of knowledge and experience I have attained on both a professional and personal level.” His experiences include: Owning and operating Iron Specialties, Inc., specializing in metal building construction along with general contracting of commercial and agricultural projects for over 30 years; He’s a residential and commercial property owner; farm and land owner; He serves on various local boards and committees; and is involved with coaching and coordinating various youth activities, as well as volunteer work around the community.

Mark O’Brien says his key objectives as a potential member of the Cass County Board of Supervisors “Will be to focus on keeping spending in-check, creating smart budgeting for continued county growth, improvement and progress, and having an open-door policy to the voters who elect [him], so their voices can be heard.” He says also, he believes his “Diverse knowledge of the construction industry would be an asset to the Board in the capacities of both planning and budgeting.

O’Brien’s family includes his wife Trish, and their sons Chris, Jason and Kolby, along with their families. He said he has recently begun the process to retire, and passing his business on to his sons. He says “As my duties at the office come to an end, I am eager to put my time to use serving the county.” Anyone with questions may contact him at 712-249-4881, or by e-mail (marktobrien@msn.com). A reminder to person interest in running for office in Cass County, the first day for Democratic and Republican candidates for county offices to file nomination papers in the office of the county auditor is Monday, March 5, 2018.  The last day to file is Wednesday, March 28, 2018. Nomination papers may be circulated prior to first date for filing as well as during the filing period.  Nomination papers are available at the office of the county auditor and from the secretary of state ( www.sos.iowa.gov )