I am running for Des Moines City Council to bring Des Moines into the 21st Century.

In December, I will graduate with a degree in computer engineering. Over the years, I have been involved in many campus and community activities.

I want to make sure everybody in Des Moines has a chance to be heard. I want to market Des Moines to young people, and I invite your suggestions. I want to make Des Moines a friendlier city for all by allowing neighborhoods appropriate time to make recommendations about changes. I also want to work to expand regional government to help maintain shared services and facilities including a viable light rail system and cooperative tax base sharing.

Even if you are away at school, but currently registered in Des Moines, you can still vote in the primary election to be held Oct. 5, by requesting an absentee ballot. Simply send a note with your name, address, what election (Des Moines City Council) and your signature to the Polk County Election Office, 120 2nd Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309. Or you can e-mail, call or write me, and I will send you the registration card needed for an absentee ballot.

I invite you to contact me for more information, to discuss campaign issues or just to share your thoughts about Des Moines by calling 1-888-220-2875, e-mailing me at [email protected], writing me at PO Box 31032, Des Moines, IA 50310. Also feel free to look at my Web site www.voteburkhardt.com.

Thank you and don’t forget to request those absentee ballots.

Bryan Burkhardt

Senior

Computer engineering