Shawn Burgstrum
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Council Bluffs Daily Nonpareil Questionnaire
Shawn Burgstrum has not provided answers to our questionnaire. He told The Nonpareil in an email after the profiles were published online Wednesday, Sept. 17, that "I filled out the Nonpareil survey and once again, I am told that no one has received my response." The Nonpareil has no record of a submission being made.
Burgstrum claimed The Nonpareil is censoring him, despite repeated efforts to invite his response, including visiting his home after The Nonpareil was unable to leave him a message because his voicemail was not set up. If he does provides a response, The Nonpareil and the chamber will make it available on our websites.
Burgstrum told The Nonpareil in an interview that his priorities include addressing blocked railroad crossing by suing Union Pacific Railroad. He also cited housing and homelessness as top issues and is recommending a 1.25% property tax cap, with any higher requests going to a public vote.
Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce Questionnaire
| Question 1:
Population Growth & Economic Vitality Many residents and business leaders believe that growing the population of Council Bluffs is critical to near- and long-term economic vitality, workforce sustainability, and community vibrancy. Others are more cautious or uncertain about the need for growth, citing a desire to keep the community the way it is.
No Answer Provided |
| Question 2:
Attracting and Retaining Workers and Families Building and maintaining a strong workforce, particularly young professionals and families, is important to ensuring a strong future workforce and a vibrant local economy.
No Answer Provided |
Question 3:
Role of City Government in Economic Development Economic development is increasingly competitive across the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro, the Midwest, and the nation. Communities are vying for limited business investment, talent, and development opportunities. While these efforts are often driven by private and nonprofit partners, city government plays a vital role in creating the conditions for success through policies, infrastructure, incentives, and collaboration.
No Answer Provided |
Question 4:
Fiscal Responsibility & City Budgeting Developing and managing the city budget is one of the most important responsibilities of elected officials. A responsible budget must reflect community priorities, comply with legal and financial constraints, and respond to changing economic conditions. Understanding how city revenues are generated, and how those funds can and cannot be used, is critical to making sound decisions.
What experience do you have with budgeting, particularly in government, business, or nonprofit settings? Share your understanding of how a city budget works, including major sources of revenue and how city services are paid for. How would you approach developing and monitoring the city’s budget? What city services or projects would you prioritize?
No Answer Provided
| Question 5:
Downtown & Corridor Redevelopment Vibrant, well-designed corridors and a thriving downtown are key to a city’s identity, perception, and long-term economic momentum. In Council Bluffs, areas such as First Avenue, West Broadway, the riverfront, and the historic downtown, among others, serve as gateways to the community and focal points for housing, business, entertainment, and civic life. Redevelopment of these areas is central to attracting new investment, residents, and visitors.
No Answer Provided |