Meet the candidates: Stanton contested races
The Red Oak Express is publishing a Meet the Candidates series on the contested races in Montgomery County. The candidates were asked the same questions and the responses are below. We have corrected for spelling, grammar, and punctuation only Candidates are listed in the order responses were received.
Stanton City Council
Name:
Chris Stephens.
Current Job Title:
Stanton City Council, full-time job Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Family info: Spouse/children/grandchildren (if you want to share):
Wife Lacey, five daughters, Allysa, Dana, Lauren, Jenna, Cooper, and four grandkids.
Why are you running for city council?
I’ve been on the council for about six years. In that time, we have extended the walking trail, main street facade project, and updated much needed city equipment. I want to see the tax dollars spent wisely on projects that keep Stanton growing and benefit everyone, and keep making Stanton a safe place to raise a family. When the city has projects, I talk to people and see what they think. I’m not in the position to just vote what I think. I’m here to vote the way the majority of people want things done.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
I’ve been on the Stanton City Council for six years, and mayor pro tem for four years.
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
1. Affordable housing, getting young families to move to Stanton.
2. Maintaining and improving the streets.
Are you a member of any clubs/organizations/boards?
The Mamrelund Lutheran Church, Stanton Fire Department, the Villisca Country Club Board, and the South Hill Driveway Club.
What skills will vou bring to the council if elected?
Common sense and listening to the people.
Who inspires you?
My father, Gary Stephens, was a past mayor and that kind of put the idea of city government in my head.
Anything else you would like to add?
Stanton is a great place to live. We, as a town, are lucky to have people that want to make it even better for the future. The other candidates, Justin Rhamy, Wes Royal, and Jeff Sebeniecher are all very good people, so if I win or lose. I know Stanton will be the winner in this election.
Name:
Wes Royal.
Current Job title:
Electric Operations Supervisor.
Family info: Spouse/children/grandchildren (if you want to share):
• Mary Royal- Spouse.
• Shayna Royal- Daughter.
• Tanner Stubbendeck- Son.
• Tyler Stubbendeck- Son.
• Colby Royal- Son.
• Sophia and Camillia Schwartz- Grandchildren
Why are you running for city council?
To help keep the community in the future and keep things going forward. I appreciate the improvements being made and would like to see them continue in that direction.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
City Council Member- four years (2021-2025.)
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
• Keep the community moving in a positive direction as it has over the years.
• Bring about new perspectives to the community.
Are you a member of any clubs/organizations/boards?
No.
What skills will you bring to the council if elected?
• Open-minded and new ideas.
• Electrical experience.
• Problem-solving and hands-on project management.
• Team supervision and staff training.
• Conflict resolution and clear communication.
• Decision-making under pressure.
Who inspires you?
• My family, such as my parents, wife, kids, and peers.
Anything else you would like to add?
I’m proud to call Stanton home and look forward to the opportunity to serve the people who make this community such a great place to live and raise a family.
Name:
Jeffrey Alan Sebeniecher.
Current Job title:
Owner, Rex’s Plumbing & Heating.
Family info: Spouse/children/grandchildren (if you want to share):
I have a wonderful blended family with my girlfriend, Lisa Joint. I have three children myself, Emily 17, Kaleb 15, and Karson 12. Lisa has three as well, Alexis 19, Haylee 17, and Mhylee 17.
Why are you running for city council?
I believe I can bring a positive voice to our community by offering insight into improvements to our community that are fiscally responsible and for the betterment of Stanton. I see challenges we can fix and opportunities to build on, in our community.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
I have not served as an elected official in the past. I have spent much of my time coaching youth sports trying to stay as actively involved in my children’s lives as possible. Now that my children are older, I have a little more time to focus on other interests such as being involved in the community.
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
I would like to hear the community’s opinion on what they would like to see for change or improvements. I think Stanton has done a great job at making it a welcoming place to families and I would like to help continue that work. Improving infrastructure, whether its roads, potholes, electrical or even maintaining parks make it more of an attractive place for families and businesses. I feel that by improving these now, it will save the community in the long-term.
What skills will you bring to the council if elected?
As the owner of a local plumbing and HVAC business, I have a vast knowledge of appropriate spending as well as finding the best fit that will be the most beneficial to our community financially. I bring years of experience leading a team, managing complex projects, and troubleshooting problems. I will help find solutions and bring a good mindset to the table. I enjoy working with and speaking to people and look forward to helping make a difference in our community.
Who inspires you?
My parents have both been an inspiration to me starting from a young age by modeling how to be a team raising their children and practicing good morals. My mom played a vital role in teaching me to be humble and kind. My father showed me the ropes to the business at a young age taking me to jobs, having a good work ethic, and providing for my family.
Name:
Justin Rhamy
Current Job Title:
Chief of Police, Red Oak, Iowa
Family Info (Spouse/Children/Grandchildren):
Married to my wife, Emma, for three years. Together we have four children — Owen, Elsie, Sadie, and Wren — and we’re proud to be raising them here in Stanton.
Why are you running for city council?
I’m running for city council because I care deeply about the future of Stanton. As someone raising a family here, I have real “skin in the game.” I want to help ensure Stanton continues to grow while keeping the close-knit, family-centered values that make this town special. Supporting local families, improving safety, and encouraging positive community growth are priorities that matter not only to me as a public servant, but as a parent and neighbor.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
I have been serving on the Stanton City Council for the past one and a half years.
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
1. Community Safety & Communication — As Chief of Police and with my ongoing role in local government, I’ve seen firsthand the value of proactive communication and community partnerships. I want to continue strengthening that trust within Stanton by ensuring residents feel informed, heard, and supported.
2. Smart Growth for Families — Stanton has a strong foundation. I’d like to help plan for responsible growth that attracts young families and businesses while maintaining the small-town character that makes this community such a great place to raise kids.
Are you a member of any clubs/organizations/boards?
Member of local law enforcement associations and active in community service initiatives. I also have over 11 years of experience serving as an EMS volunteer, which has strengthened my commitment to helping others and supporting the needs of our community.
What skills will you bring to the council if elected?
Leadership, communication, collaborative decision-making, and experience under pressure. My background in law enforcement and emergency services has given me experience in problem-solving, budgeting, and working with diverse groups of people toward a common goal. I believe in listening first, collaborating often, and doing what’s right for the community as a whole.
Who inspires you?
My wife and children inspire me every day. They remind me why community, service and integrity matter — and why it’s worth putting in the work to build a better future.
Anything else you would like to add?
I’m proud to call Stanton home. It’s where Emma and I are raising Owen, Elsie, Sadie, and Wren, and where we’re building our future. I would be honored to continue serving this community and do my part to help it thrive.
Stanton School Board
Name:
Cameron Lewellen
Current Job title:
Driver with United Parcel Service ( UPS )
Family info: Spouse/children/grandchildren (if you want to share):
I am married to Morgan Lewellen and we have twin 4 year old boys.
Why are you running for school board?
I’m running for School Board because I believe in the importance of protecting and strengthening our school for the future. In a rural community, keeping a small school running takes tough decisions, careful budgeting, and a strong commitment from everyone involved.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
I have served the past four years as Vice President of Stanton’s School Board.
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
If elected, my top two priorities will be improving the security of our school facilities and supporting teacher retention. We need to ensure that our students and staff feel safe when they walk into the building. Strengthening our facility’s security will help provide peace of mind for families and create a better environment for learning.
Are you a member of any clubs/organizations/boards?
I’m not currently a member of any clubs or organizations, but I recently completed my term on our church council.
What skills will you bring to school board if elected?
If elected, I bring knowledge of the upcoming bond and four years of school board experience. I’m ready to help guide our district through this important time with careful planning and a focus on what’s best for our students and community.
Do you have any immediate goals in mind?
If the bond passes, we want to build a secure double entry and add more classrooms. With enrollment going up, it’s important we have enough space to give every student a great learning environment.
Who inspires you?
I’m inspired by our youth and how they adapt and grow in today’s world. Their resilience motivates me to help create the best opportunities for their success.
Name:
Jaclyn (Jackie) Hoyt
Current Job title:
Associate Nursing Professor, Iowa Western Community College
Family info: Spouse/children/grandchildren (if you want to share):
My husband, Keegun, and I have two kids. Hadlee is 11 and in 5th grade and Anson is 7 and in 1st grade.
Why are you running for school board?
I am running for school board to continue to support our school staff to make a difference for our kids. It is a great opportunity for me to give back to my community and make a difference in the kids’ lives.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
I have previously served on our college’s Faculty Senate. I was appointed by the current school board to fill a vacancy on our school board. I have also served on many community and school committees and currently as a 4-H leader and youth sports coach.
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
My first priority would be student and staff safety. There has been a need identified to improve our facilities to keep everyone safe. This includes building updates as well as mechanical work. My second priority is continuing to keep our student achievement high. This includes preparedness for their post-high school endeavors, whether it be military service, college/trade school, or the workforce.
Are you a member of any clubs/organizations/boards?
I am a current Stanton Community School board director as well as a 4-H leader.
What skills will you bring to school board if elected?
I believe I have the leadership and strategic and critical thinking skills to be an effective board director. I also feel I have a unique perspective working with recent graduates at the college level.
Do you have any immediate goals in mind?
I would like to address our safety issues that have been identified. I think it is important to keep in mind that threats don’t always come from outside the school and keeping all children and staff safe should be our priority.
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by the kids- not only my own but also the kids I help to coach and work with. It is a privilege to get to work with them, watch them grow and improve, and form meaningful relationships with each other and adults in their lives.
Anything else you would like to add?
I would really appreciate your vote!
Name:
Alex Cabbage.
Current Job title:
Business Sales Engineer at FMTC.
Why are you running for school board?
I’m choosing to run for school board because I care deeply about the success, well-being, and equity of all students in our district. I believe that every child deserves access to a high-quality education, and I want to be a voice that helps guide decisions that truly put students first.
I bring a thoughtful, open-minded approach and a willingness to listen to all sides before making decisions. I’m committed to transparency, collaboration, and ensuring that the board works together to support our educators, empower families, and build strong, safe, and inclusive schools.
By serving on the school board, I hope to contribute positively to shaping policies that reflect the values of our community while also preparing students for a changing world.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
To this point in my life, I have not served as an elected official.
I am at a place now where I feel like I have the ability to do so and would appreciate the opportunity to serve my community and school district.
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
My top two priorities will closely align with my immediate goals.
Priority one will be to develop collaborative relationships with fellow board members, the superintendent, staff, and community members while also beginning to understand the governance structure, policies, budget, and key district initiatives.
Priority two will be to fully prepare and implement tasks/goals if the upcoming Bond issue is approved within the Stanton Community School District.
Are you a member of any clubs/organizations/boards?
Current Treasurer on the board for the Stanton Teammates Mentoring Chapter.
Co-Head baseball coach for Stanton High School.
Iowa High School Athletic Association Registered Football Official.
Previously served on the Stanton Fire and Rescue Department.
What skills will you bring to school board if elected?
Key skills that I possess in which will make me a beneficial board member are:
Critical and Strategic Thinking, Open-mindedness, Situational Adaptability, Knowing and understanding the value of communication, Leadership, Understanding and implementing the importance of teamwork, Honesty, and Objectivity.
Do you have any immediate goals in mind?
Immediate goals I will have if elected are:
To develop collaborative relationships with fellow board members, the superintendent, staff, and community members.
Align myself with the district’s strategic management and goals to fully understand what is going on and what is immediately needed from myself.
To understand the governance structure, policies, budget, and key district initiatives will also be imperative.
Lastly, prepare for the potential passing of the bond issue in the Stanton school district and to help in any capacity I can with this.
Who inspires you?
Number one, I am a faith-based person. Turning to the Bible and Jesus has and is very important to me.
Secondly, I have been very blessed with having great immediate and extended family members. Having the close-up opportunity to see how various family members act, treat one another, how they lead their families and communities, and how they respond to good and bad situations, has been a great blessing and learning opportunity for me.
Lastly, and to continue the theme of family, I have had four incredible role models in which I have learned from and molded myself after. My grandpa Gene, late uncle Steve Cabbage, uncle Rick Cabbage and father Kevin Cabbage. The ability to learn from and be guided by these men, as a young man myself, has been invaluable.
Anything else you would like to add?
I want to thank the community and school district for the potential to fulfill this role. I am excited at the opportunity to help guide and serve the current and future students and community members of the Stanton Community School District, if elected.
Name:
Ryan Hart
Current Job title:
Vice President at Houghton State Bank.
Family info: Spouse/children/grandchildren (if you want to share):
Stacy Hart-Spouse, and children Peyton, Ava, and Rylee.
Why are you running for school board?
My main reason for running for school board is to provide my best input on financial spending for the school. I love the town of Stanton and the school district. I went to Stanton Schools as a kid and had a great experience. I have three young daughters in school there today and I want them to have the same great experience as I did as a kid at Stanton. I also believe Stanton has tremendous faculty and staff that do a great job with our kids. I think its important to have clear and constant communication with the faculty and get a real understanding of their wants and needs in order to retain them in our district.
In what capacity have you served as an elected official in the past?
Currently on the ISU Ag Extension Council board for Montgomery County.
If elected, what are your top two priorities, and why?
My top two priorities would be focused around school facility improvements with a) better accommodations for the students and faculty and b) improving school security for both students and faculty.
Are you a member of any clubs/organizations/boards?
ISU Ag Extension Council, Stanton School Facilities Committee, Stanton Fire and Rescue.
What skills will you bring to school board if elected?
My goal would be to use my work experience as a financial lender to provide quality advice on budgets, capital spending and overall financial success of the school.
Do you have any immediate goals in mind?
I would like to see a better heating/ac system put into both the school and the gymnasium. I would like to see updated fire and security systems set in place as well. The main emphasis being around facility updates.
Who inspires you?
My wife Stacy. She has been my rock for the 12 years we have been married. She’s a cancer survivor. She volunteers for the community every chance she gets and I’m incredibly lucky to have her in my life. I would also have to say my parents for giving me such a great upbringing in Stanton and being able to pass those traits on to my kids is something I value.