Meeks plans to improve relations with law enforcement

Justin Meeks of Fort Scott, currently the assistant county attorney for Linn County, is a Republican candidate for the county attorney post currently held by Burton Harding. Harding decided not to run for re-election and last year decided against resigning his post when a suitable replacement couldn't be found. Meeks was working part time at that point.

Meeks responded to our survey request. His opponent in the primary, Joseph Falls of Ottawa did not respond to emails or calls. Here are Meeks' responses to our questions:

Why have you decided to run for office? 

Over the past four years I have been the Assistant County Attorney for Linn County.  I feel that I have a good working relationship with the current county attorney staff, law enforcement and the court system.  I have really enjoyed working with people of Linn County and look forward to serving them for the next four years.  

What is your background and how has that prepared you to serve your constituents? 

I have been practicing law for over 20 years.  Ten of those years I have been either a county attorney or an assistant county attorney.  I have tried numerous cases during my 20 years and understand the process and system very well.

The county attorney’s office in Linn County has undergone some significant changes over the past four years. What, if any, changes do you propose to make the prosecutor’s office more effective?

 I believe that the prosecutor’s office is effective, but everything can be improved.  If elected I would like to be able to meet with law enforcement at least once a quarter to discuss any issues and learn from each other to improve the overall safety of the county and communities we serve.  I would like to have more communication with the community through civic engagement.