By Virginia Barreda, Des Moines Register
Polk County Treasurer Mary Wells is seeking reelection.
Wells, who’s served as treasurer since 2021, oversees collecting property taxes and issuing vehicle registrations. Wells runs unopposed in the June 2 primary and will also be the lone candidate on the Nov. 3 ballot.
The Register asked each candidate to respond to questions about why they’re running and the biggest issues facing Polk County. Their answers may be edited for length or clarity.
Mary Wells
Age: 61
Party: Democrat
Lives in: Des Moines
Current occupation: Polk County treasurer
Education background: Bachelor’s from Upper Iowa University, cum laude in business administration, majoring in management
Political experience: Political background began with her 2021 appointment and subsequent 2022 election as Polk County treasurer
Why are you running?
I am seeking reelection to continue improving on the work I started in 2021 — transforming the Polk County Treasurer’s Office into a welcoming and efficient office where it is easy for citizens to conduct business. With my background, I’ve brought a disciplined and streamlined customer-first approach to the Treasurer’s Office.
I remain committed to removing barriers to government services by expanding translation services and ensuring every citizen, regardless of their ethnicity or demographic background, feels respected and supported when they interact with our office.
What is the most important issue facing Polk County and what would you do to address it?
An important issue facing the Polk County Treasurer’s Office is the recent all county titling law (House File 674). This law allows citizens to title vehicles in any Iowa county, which has impacted our transactions and resulted in a loss of funds. That is why we launched the “Polk Proud” campaign. It educates citizens on the importance of titling vehicles locally, ensuring your dollars stay right here in our community. These funds support critical resources, such as emergency management, conservation, health services, and veteran relief. Keep your dollars in your community. Be Polk Proud!
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