DES MOINES, Iowa — As Gov. Kim Reynolds works to outline her priorities for the upcoming legislative session, she held a public meeting Wednesday to discuss priorities regarding the 2024 budget.
Iowans were able to voice what they would like to see in the upcoming budget and how Reynolds' previous monetary support has helped them.
There were various organization leaders speaking at the public budget meeting, discussing topics ranging from education, agriculture and business development in relation to tax reform.
Food Bank of Iowa was one of the nonprofit organizations that spoke, looking to bridge the gap with the government and combat hunger in Iowa.
“As federal poverty benefits become more difficult for Iowans to access, I would like to encourage you to consider providing funds to help, feeding America food banks could procure food for the over 1200 pantries and feeding sites, which we support across all 99 Iowa counties," said Michelle Book , CEO of Food Bank of Iowa. "Today we're funded by private donors, but going forward, we would like to embrace a public-private partnership to ensure that we are able to feed all hard-working Iowans."
Tax reform was also something organizations praised Reynolds for, calling on her efforts to continue.
"Tax relief and a robust budget will mean more money is being invested back into Iowa communities across the state," said Mike Rozenboom, legal counsel for the Iowa Bankers Association. "We are pleased to report that Iowa banks are in strong financial condition and stand ready to work with Iowans and Iowa small businesses to put that money to work in our community state."
Reynolds says the diversity in our economy is a big reason for success, adding that it is the third year in a row that Iowa has had record numbers in start-up businesses.
"Manufacturing 4.0., that helps our smaller businesses take advantage of technologies, really helps the productivity and helps with the workforce shortages that we have around the state," said J.D. Davis, vice president of public policy for the Iowa Association of Business and Industry.
The 2024 legislative session begins Jan. 8.