Mayor Frank Flanders

Dear Friends and Fellow Citizens;
Welcome to our City's website. As you may notice, upgrades have already begun with my term, yet our improved version will remain a work in progress for some time. In the time since my election, I have reviewed this site extensively, as well as many other sites of nearby cities and other Iowa cities of our size. A lack of depth and thoroughness struck me at every site I visited, including those of some larger cities. I see this as no reason for our site to remain no more impressive than that of the competition, but rather as an opportunity to provide a far superior site for our citizens and visitors; and to present a more attractive and comprehensive look at Ottumwa's many strengths and features to those considering investing in her.

To this end I have requested that City Council members, the City Administrator and select staff personnel post a brief bio and/or message next to their photograph, as I will as well, to provide a greater human touch to the site. Also, more features, far more detailed information and more attractive presentation will soon be evident throughout a website I am determined to see upgraded to the best of its kind.

I wish to convey my gratitude to the people of Ottumwa for the honor, opportunity and fascinating challenge they have bestowed upon me. An improved website is a small part of the positive changes that our City hungers for, but it is an important part. As upgrades are installed, we welcome all suggestions from any who visit. Please remember that all city employees and officials are happy to assist citizens and visitors with whatever concerns or needs are brought to our attention.

Yours truly,
                        Mayor Frank Flanders

Frank Flanders was born in Ottumwa in 1967. In 1970 his family moved to Duluth, Minnesota, where Frank earned a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Minnesota in 1989.

Frank returned to Ottumwa in 1993 to build a life in his original hometown. In August of 1998, Frank was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Ottumwa City Council, a position he was elected to retain in November of 1999. In November 2001 he was elected to a full four-year term. He considers his role in bringing Job Corps to Ottumwa the greatest accomplishment of his political tenure. After an unsuccessful bid for mayor in 2009, Frank was elected to the Wapello County Extension Council in 2010, and to the Mayor's office in November 2011.

Frank is a private pilot and published author. He also plays most brass instruments; the trumpet being his primary. He is an avid motorcyclist and a fan of football and baseball.

.

Email the Mayor 

.