Jay Stutts is announcing his candidacy for commissioner of Precinct 2 of Polk County.
“I am proud to announce my candidacy for Polk County Commissioner for Precinct 2. Polk County has greatly impacted who I am, from my years serving in emergency services to raising my family here. I am committed to serving our community with integrity, transparency, and an open line of communication.
“I’m running for commissioner because I want to continue building a community that values service, strong leadership, and responsible, sustainable growth. As a proud native of this county, I’ve spent my life working alongside dedicated neighbors and serving in roles that have allowed me to give back directly to the community that raised me.
“My background in emergency services is at the core of my commitment to service. During my time as fire chief and through extensive experience working within our county’s ambulatory services and emergency response system, I gained firsthand knowledge of what it takes to protect lives. I have responded to emergencies, coordinated with EMS teams, stood shoulder to shoulder with firefighters and medics, and worked closely with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. These experiences reinforced the importance of preparedness, communication, and cooperation with county departments. I’ve seen the moments when seconds matter, and I understand how critical proper resources, training, and infrastructure are for protecting lives.
“Public safety isn’t a talking point to me. It’s a responsibility I’ve lived, led, and understand deeply. That experience will guide my decisions as commissioner, especially when it comes to improving emergency response capabilities. Supporting our first responders and ensuring that every resident, from our most rural areas to our most populated, can count on timely, reliable help when they need it most.
“My work as a rural mail carrier has also provided valuable insight into the condition of our county roads. Traveling on these roads in all weather conditions has shown me how critical maintenance and long-term planning are. Safe, reliable roads support residents, local businesses, and essential services. In emergency situations, improved roads mean faster response times, and faster response times save lives.
“As your commissioner, I will bring a lifetime of public service, a heart for community, responsible growth, and stronger public safety. Together, we can make Polk County safer, stronger, and more prosperous. I would be honored to earn your support as we work toward a future we can all be proud of.”
