Linn County District 2 Board of Supervisors candidates lay out their visions
Candidates for Linn County District 2 Board of Supervisors, Sami Scheetz (Democrat) and Rex Meyer (Republican), discussed their differing views on an 18-month data center moratorium passed by the board in July. Scheetz, the incumbent, voted against it, fearing it might push companies to unregulated small towns, while Meyer believes it allows for further research into data center needs. The candidates also touched upon county finances and public health issues.
In the only contested Linn County District 2 Board of Supervisors race this year, incumbent Democrat Sami Scheetz and Republican nominee Rex Meyer presented their visions for the county. The two candidates hold differing opinions on a significant local policy: an 18-month data center moratorium enacted by the board in July.
Meyer, emphasizing his private sector and technical background, supports the moratorium, stating it provides the county an opportunity to thoroughly research the resources and impact data centers would require. Conversely, Scheetz, who was appointed to the seat in April 2025 and voted against the moratorium, expressed concerns that such a pause might inadvertently encourage data center companies to pursue projects in smaller towns with less regulatory oversight.
The candidates also addressed other key issues, including county finances, particularly in light of a new property tax reform law. Meyer highlighted mental health issues as a serious concern within the county, while Scheetz pointed to a trend of lower childhood vaccination rates in the state. Both candidates also shared their favorite local spots in Linn County.