Des Moines Sun

Incumbent Bill Gray is running for a third term as a member of the Des Moines City Council.

Gray has been serving as a councilman for Ward 1 since 2014. Prior to becoming part of the council, he was on the City’s Zoning Board of Adjustment from 2001 to 2013.

“I have been a member of the community all those years and attend as many neighborhood meetings as I can to so I can be responsive to the needs of the citizens and taxpayer of Ward 1 and the city of Des Moines,” Gray told Des Moines Sun.

Among the issues Gray will focus on if he wins the seat is the continuation of a $7.2 million dollar project dedicated enhancing the sewer systems and streets on the city’s north side.

“We have to fix and improve our aging streets and sewer infrastructure,” he said. “We are so far behind in where we need to be.”

Another top priority will be maintaining the city’s parks, trails and recreation areas. He has already helped bring nearly $3 million in improvements to Ashby, Bates, Tower and Witmer Parks.

“Our parks are the crown jewel of our city,” Gray said. “Parks surrounded by neighborhoods offer amenities that families want.”

Gray also plans to ensure police and fire departments are adequately staffed, as well as increase affordable housing for Des Moines residents.

Gray, who was born and raised in Des Moines, worked in the telecommunications industry for four decades. In addition to the Des Moines City Council, he also serves on the board of directors for the Neighborhood Development Corporation.

Gray is a graduate of Dowling High School and the University of Iowa.

He and his wife Ann have been married for 45 years and live in Beaverdale. They have four children and seven grandchildren.