Sen. Dennis Guth, R-Klemme, and House Rep. Shannon Latham, R-Sheffield, were on hand to share the issues of the two branches of Iowa government. This was the third attempt to hold this event in Hamilton County, with events scheduled in January and February both canceled due to the weather.

“I was pleasantly surprised at the number who showed up.” said Ottie Maxey, executive director of the HCGP. “I love that we had folks from eight of nine communities represented.”

The topic of property taxes came up multiple times during the hour-long forum, with eminent domain and the Summit pipeline also addressed throughout the forum.

Guth explained that there were close to 2,000 bills presented in the 2025-2026 session. Of those so far 49 bills were sent to the Governor’s desk for signature.

Both Latham and Guth indicated that most of the bills had bi-partisan support.

“80% of what we do is not controversial,” said Guth.

Latham agreed. “My first year was very tense; but there are no undertones today. It’s been much more cooperative than the media has reported.

“As Iowans we have more in common than we don’t,” she said. “And we are truly interested in making Iowa a better place.”

“The eminent domain issue is partisan, but even within the Republican party it is very splintered,” said Guth.

Latham agreed, “We are hoping for some type of compromise.”

Concerns about the continuing hike of insurance, and changes in the funding structures available for education were also discussed.

Three county assessors were present for the meeting; and asked about the bill which would eliminate property taxes for homeowners over the age of 65. Their concerns were that there are 923 towns in Iowa with populations under 500 people. Those towns have a large number living who are over the age of 65.

They stated that the senior population pulled off the tax rolls would have a devastating effect on the finances for the city and county. One county was cited as having 40% over the age of 65.

During the meeting, the two candidates were introduced who will be vying for the Republican nomination to run for House Seat 55. This is the seat currently held by Latham.

“It was really nice to recognize Rep. Latham for her years of service, and that she worked so hard to represent Hamilton County,” said Maxey.