Candidate Profile: Jim Romar, Dallas County Sheriff

Jim Romar, a 30-year veteran of the West Des Moines Police Department, is hoping his experience will be enough to snag the Dallas County Sheriff's seat from incumbent sheriff Chad Leonard. 

In January when Romar announced his candidacy for Dallas County Sheriff, Romar cited Leonard's lack of fiscal responsibility, lack of concern for his deputies and no accountability regarding call priority in office.

Romar, a Republican, is a former member and past chairman of both the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Governing Council and Iowa Law Enforcement Intelligence Network and served three years in the United States Army.

He says, if elected, he will not only increase officer safety, but will also partner with schools, provide law enforcement to the unincorporated areas of Dallas County and enhance narcotics and alcohol enforcement.

Romar, who lives on the Polk County side of West Des Des Moines, would have to move to Dallas County if elected Dallas County Sheriff.

Campaign Spending

Campaign finance reports filed last week with the Iowa Ethics & Campaign Disclosure Board show that Romar has raised $5,608.56 in campaign contributions. After expenditures of $5,435.46, Romar's campaign was left with $173.10.

Some of Romar's single biggest contributors include:

• Steve McCalley, Adel - $200
• John Buttz, Waukee - $150
• Kaaren Henderson, Mesa, Ariz. - $200
• Jon Thomas, West Des Moines - $200
• Josie Morin, Dallas Center - $200

Romar for Sheriff

There are currently no public forums scheduled prior to the June 5 primary. If you would like additional information on Romar, his history or what he will do if elected, go to his website at www.romar4sheriff.

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