KEOKUK (WGEM) - There’s still over one month until a new mayor takes office, but in the meantime, research and preparation is being done to ensure a relatively smooth transition.

Mayor-elect Mark Smidt won 68% of the vote in the Nov. 4 election , 706 more votes than the runner-up.

The southwest Iowa native said he’s been spending much of his time preparing for January by meeting with current city and community leaders.

“Now the hard work starts, and that’s okay,” Smidt said in a sit down with WGEM News. “That doesn’t bother me at all. We’ll get the plan figured out. We’ll try and prioritize things and that part doesn’t worry me at all.“

Recently retired, Smidt said he’s had a long-standing belief of public service, and with the extra time, believes he can best impact the community

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