A Buena Vista County voice is stepping into the political spotlight — and he’s aiming for a seat on the board of supervisors.
Rural Newell resident Tom Grau has announced he’s seeking the Democratic nomination for District 3 of the Buena Vista County Board of Supervisors — the seat currently held by Republican board chair Paul Merten, who is running for re‑election.
Grau is not officially on the ballot yet. Because no Democrat ran in the June primary, state law requires the party to nominate a candidate through a county convention, rather than a petition process. Grau says that’s now underway.
If nominated, Grau would be the only non‑incumbent in this year’s supervisor races. Districts 1 and 2 — held by Kathy Croker and Kelly Snyder, both Republicans — also have incumbents seeking re‑election.
Grau says he stepped forward because he believes Buena Vista County is at a pivotal moment.
Grau brings decades of experience in agriculture, economic development and federal service. His background includes leading the Pocahontas Economic Development Commission, serving as Membership and Outreach Director for Storm Lake United and holding multiple leadership roles within the United States Department of Agriculture and the Iowa Department of Economic Development. He also holds a law degree from Drake University.
He says collaboration — across departments, communities and political lines — would be central to his approach.
Grau points to water quality, long‑range planning and economic development as areas where he believes he can contribute immediately.
He also says Buena Vista County’s greatest asset is its people — and the new ideas they bring.
Grau says he expects the Democratic nominating convention to be scheduled soon. Until then, he plans to continue door knocking and meeting with residents across the county as he seeks a place on the November ballot.
