I believe that all of our citizens should have their voices heard, which is why I first ran for city council in 2017. As evident by my two terms of service, I am a person who likes to build relationships and grow collaborations to get things done.

Prior to serving you on the council, I had the privilege to serve several years on the Board of Adjustment and the Planning and Zoning Commission. I also represented Windsor Heights on the Des Moines Sister Cities Commission.

Professionally, I've had the opportunity to work in higher education, for life-long public servants, in state government, and for our metro community at large. Each experience has given me the chance to learn, grow, and develop an understanding and appreciation for people from all walks of life, and the issues that affect them. I currently serve as chief of staff to the president at Des Moines University.

I first visited Iowa in 2002 when I'd taken a leave of absence from my job in Atlanta. I set out on a mission to go to a state I'd never been to before, take a job "without any help", and take whatever job I was offered, which resulted in the opportunity to spend six months working on a campaign. After returning to my job in Atlanta later that year, I realized that I liked Greater Des Moines better and Iowa was where I was supposed to be.

I quickly sought jobs that would allow me to follow my passions and put my talents to work. I moved to Windsor Heights on a snowy day in March 2003 and it has been home for me ever since.

I also find it important to give back to our community, which led me to volunteer service at organizations throughout the metro. My current volunteer roles include serving on the boards of the Mid-Iowa Health Foundation and the Greater Des Moines Community Foundation. I serve on the city’s committees on economic development, personnel and finance, and public safety. Two of my council assignments include DART and the Homeless Coordinating Council.

I look forward to continuing to hear your thoughts about our community and sharing my own with you.

Your neighbor,

-Joseph Jones