There are two candidates running for Guthrie County Sheriff, and today we talked with Republican challenger Matt Harmann.

Harmann and his family moved to Panora when he was in elementary school, and he graduated from Panorama High School in 1997, when he began attending Iowa Lakes Community College. After finishing college, he began his own excavating business, which he still owns and operates. Harmann says that he always had a passion for serving, and in 2017 began taking classes at the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, which he graduated from in 2018, and joined the Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy and one of their two K9 handlers.

Harmann shares his thoughts on the proposed Summit Carbon Solutions underground liquid carbon dioxide capture pipeline.

“The possibility of a CO2 pipeline is a concern for many who live and own property in Guthrie County. I feel the role of sheriff is most relevant on this issue as it relates to individual property rights and the process by which eminent domain could be used. I’m a strong believer in individual property rights.”

Harmann mentions that if he is elected as sheriff, he would support working with area school districts to make sure that they are safe for students, and is also supportive of having a school resource officer at Adair – Casey / Guthrie Center should the district decide that they would want to have one. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio why he decided to run for Guthrie County Sheriff.

“I’ve spoken with people all over Guthrie County, and I believe I can make a positive impact on issues that concern our citizens. I’m committed to safer communities and schools, including taking a hard line on illegal drugs. I also respect that property taxes are a concern of many residents, and I’m committed to eliminating wasteful spending.”

Harmann explains that some important topics he would address if elected include a transparent budget, school safety and consistent law enforcement coverage throughout the county. He is running against Democratic incumbent Marty Arganbright

For the full candidate interview, along with interviews with other candidates in contested races in the KKRF in Depth Meet the Candidates News Magazine, click the link below.

https://www.raccoonvalleyradio.com/2024/10/15/kkrf-in-depth-meet-the-candidates-news-mag/