Case joins Ottumwa mayoral field
OTTUMWA — The Ottumwa mayoral race to succeed outgoing mayor Rick Johnson has another candidate.
Brenda Case announced her candidacy to run for the seat as Johnson's term expires this year and he will not seek re-election. Case has been highly visible in the community over the years, particularly for her volunteer work.
Case will formally announce her candidacy Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Fourth Street entrance to City Hall.
"We have thrived in the aftermath of floods, business and factory closures and economic downturns," Case said in a press release. "And we will continue to move forward together."
Case has worked for the Iowa Judicial Branch for 28 years, crossing paths with residents of diverse skills, perspectives and backgrounds. She is a graduate of Buena Vista University with bachelor's degrees in psychology and sociology, and holds a certificate of project management from the University of Iowa.
Through her work as a court-appointed special advocate, Case was twice honored with the Governor's Award for Volunteer Service.
As a long-time resident of Ottumwa, Case is running because "of her strong belief in the strength, resilience, compassion and unity to be found in this scrappy river town," according to the release, but also recognizes deep division.
"We are strong enough to offer compassion to those among us who are living in fear and want," she said. "We have the integrity to insist on due process for all people. We are, and always have been, Ottumwa tough."
Case serves as the chair of the Ottumwa Historic Preservation Commission and is as a long-term member and past president of Hy-Noon Kiwanis. She's also been involved with the Ottumwa League of Women Voters, Ottumwa Community Players and other civic organizations.
Case is the second person to announce a run for mayor, joining local architect Ben Foote, who announced his candidacy in April.
This will be the first election to not feature a primary, so the candidate with the most votes will win. There also are three city council seats up for election in November.
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