It's official--John Beard is running for re-election

State Representative John Beard of Decorah has announced that he will seek re-election to the Iowa House of Representatives in 2010.

"As vice-chair of two key committees, I know there is more work to do to improve our quality of life, revitalize rural Iowa, and help more family farms succeed," said Beard. Beard is Vice-Chair of the Natural Resources and State Government Committees and also serves on the Agriculture Committee and the Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriations Subcommittee.

"My top priorities are to create good-paying jobs, balance the state budget without raising taxes and ensure every student in Iowa gets a quality education," said Beard.

Beard lives in Pleasant Township with his wife, RoJene. For the last 27 years he has operated J.W. Beard Welding and Machine in Decorah. He is also a partner in the family beef operation on a farm that has been in the family for more than 150 years. He also helped start both the local Pheasants Forever and Trout Unlimited chapters.