(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry Branstad today named former state lawmaker Stewart Iverson to the Finance - Local Taxation position on Iowa's Property Tax Assessment Appeal Board. Additionally, Iverson is accepting the governor's request to chair the board.

Iverson, 62, is filling the term of Richard Stradley, who resigned in November. The term runs through April 30, 2017.

"Stewart Iverson understands the complexities of Iowa's property tax system, and will take a fair and measured approach on the board," said Branstad. "I am also pleased Stewart has accepted my request for him to serve as chairman, because his leadership will ensure an open-minded and equitable route for all Iowans who navigate the appeals process."

The State of Iowa Property Assessment Appeal Board is a state agency created for the purpose of establishing a consistent, fair and equitable property assessment appeal process. The Appeal Board conducts administrative hearings with the statutory authority to review any final decision, finding, ruling, determination, or order of a local board of review relating to protests of an assessment, valuation, or application of an equalization order.

"I am pleased Stewart has decided to continue to serve the public in this role," said Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds. "Stewart's knowledge of the appeals process, combined with his experience as an elected official, enables him to bring valuable insight to the board."

The position requires Senate confirmation. The Iowa General Assembly convenes on January 14.

Iverson has worked at a number of agricultural employers, and farmed for 32 years. Iverson began serving as a state representative in 1989, prior to his election to the Iowa Senate in 1994. Iverson served as the majority leader in the Iowa Senate from 1996-2006. 

He and his wife, Vicki, reside in Clarion.

# # #

(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds today announced the streamlining of restoration of voting rights application. The announcement of a streamlined process comes after the administration heard from Iowans regarding the process and recognized the need to act.

The updated application may be found at: https://governor.iowa.gov/constituent-services/restoration-of-citizenship-rights/.

"When an individual commits a felony, it is fair they earn their rights back by paying restitution to their victim, court costs, and fines," said Branstad.  "Iowa has a good and fair policy on the restoration of rights for convicted felons, and to automatically restore the right to vote without requiring the completion of the responsibilities associated with the criminal conviction would damage the balance between the rights and responsibility of citizens."

"Too often victims are forgotten and it is important victims of felonies and serious crimes receive their restitution," said Reynolds. "The updated process for restoration of voting rights streamlines the process for applicants while ensuring we are mindful of the victims of the crime."

The updated application includes:

• Simplified instructions for applicants
• Clarification of the current policy about submitting documentation to show an applicant completed paying their fines, restitution and court costs or has been making consistent payments in good faith
• Provides contact information so applicants can obtain free resources to help them fill out the application
• Removes the requirement for a credit history check for the voting application
• Provides a more detailed "checklist of materials" to help applicants turn in a completed application