Howard County - In the weeks leading up to the 2018 election, the Times Plain Dealer is going to introduce readers to candidates for a few of the local races. This week, the paper is highlighting the candidates for Howard County Supervisor — District 2. District 3 candidates will be featured next week. In addition this week, the Howard County Attorney, Recorder and Treasurer will answer questions. See their responses on page A-18.
Election Day 2018 is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 6. There is no presidential election, but many federal and state legislators are up for election, and county offices are also being voted on, and mid-term elections can determine the balance of power between the major parties. Don’t forget to vote!
• Family: My name is Kevin Schoeberl, candidate for Howard County Attorney. I was born and raised in Cresco, Iowa, the son of Eugene and Elsie Schoeberl. I graduated from Crestwood High School, University of Northern Iowa and the University of Iowa Law School. I have practiced law in Cresco since 1985, and currently am a partner with the law firm of Story, Schoeberl and Seebach in Cresco.
• Why are you running for office and what are your short and long-term goals?
I have been the Howard County Attorney since Jan. 1, 2015.
I am running for re-election to continue to keep Howard County a safe place for all residents to live, work and raise their children and grandchildren.
My short term goal is to continue the current aggressive prosecution of all illegal narcotic offenses. The illegal drug use in our communities requires continual law enforcement and prosecution.
My long term goal(s) include continuing with the current prosecution to limit the illegal drug use in our communities and to establish a victim witness coordinator.
I greatly appreciate the efforts of our local law enforcement agencies including but not limited to Cresco Police Department, Howard County Sheriff’s Department, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation and the Iowa Attorney General’s Office.
• What knowledge and skills would you bring to the office?
I bring a unique set of skills to the office of Howard County Attorney. I have extensive trial experience in criminal law ranging from Class A Felony (murder case) to simple misdemeanors. I have the unique perspective to evaluate cases from the view of a criminal defense attorney, based upon my prior legal experience.
• What do you see as the biggest challenge for Howard County and how can it be addressed?
Every day brings new and different challenge to this office. One of the largest challenges is the fact that my office includes only one prosecutor (myself) on a part- time basis. Howard County is the only county in District One (11 counties) that has one prosecutor. Despite that limitation, I am blessed with a hard-working, professional, and friendly staff to assist me.
• Any other comments?
I wish to stress to the citizens of Howard County that their local law enforcement officers are diligent, professional and fair. I greatly appreciate their efforts.
Thank you for your support this Nov. 6, 2018. I look forward to serving you as your County Attorney for another four years.
