Your Questions. Jason's Answers.
What is going on with Commercial Air Service at the Airport?
Right now, the numbers tell the story:
- $935 taxpayer dollars per passenger DBQ–ORD (round-trip)
- 35–40% average occupancy when 80% is needed to break even
- $350K–$450K/month subsidy risk on the current trajectory
This approach is unsustainable. Budgets should set priorities before money is spent, not after, and taxpayers deserve transparency before another $1.6 million gets handed over with no long-term plan.
As mayor, I will:
- Freeze new subsidies until there is a clear, sustainable path forward.
- Push for full transparency on all negotiations, funding sources, and performance metrics so residents see where every dollar goes.
- Bring in regional partners—City, County, state, and business leaders to share the responsibility and explore grants, partnerships, and carrier incentives.
- Set clear performance benchmarks for any future funding so we’re not scrambling year after year with no measurable goals.
- Prioritize the essentials—so tax dollars are used wisely on first responders, infrastructure, and essential services before new spending commitments.
The goal isn’t to lose air service—it’s to make sure Dubuque has a long-term, sustainable solution that doesn’t come at the expense of taxpayers or other vital city services.
How will you ensure Transparency and Fiscal Responsibility in Dubuque?
Transparency and responsible budgeting aren’t just campaign slogans; they’re how city government should work every day. Right now, too many decisions feel rushed, residents get information after the fact, and spending priorities are often unclear until the money is already gone. That has to change.
As mayor, I will:
- Enforce “No Spend Before Council Vote” – No major funding commitments without a public council vote and clear justification.
- Publish a Quarterly Waste Watch Report – A simple, public summary of big-ticket city expenditures so taxpayers know where their money goes.
- Set Priorities Before the Budget is Spent – Make sure essential services like first responders, streets, and utilities come first, before new projects or subsidies.
- Require Timely Budget Amendments – So the public sees real-time updates when costs rise or priorities change.
- Hold Regular Town Halls & Open Forums – To give residents a voice before decisions are finalized, not after.
The goal is simple: every resident should be able to see how dollars are spent, why decisions are made, and whether projects deliver results.
How will you work with Community Leaders and Businesses to improve Dubuque?
Strong cities are built on collaboration, not silos. When government, local businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders work together, we can tackle big challenges and create opportunities that benefit everyone.
As mayor, I will:
- Create a Public/Private Partnership Task Force – Bring together city officials, business owners, nonprofits, and residents to align priorities and pool resources for projects that matter most.
- Listen to all businesses, not just the ones City Hall usually hears from – Small businesses, startups, and independent voices deserve a seat at the table alongside large employers and established organizations.
- Leverage Business Expertise & Innovation – Tap into the knowledge and creativity of local businesses for ideas on economic growth, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements.
- Seek Joint Funding Opportunities – Work with state and federal agencies, as well as private partners, to unlock grants and co-investment opportunities instead of relying solely on taxpayer dollars.
- Promote Shared Accountability – Ensure all partners have clear roles, goals, and transparent reporting so projects deliver measurable results.
- Host Quarterly “Community Leadership Roundtables” – A standing meeting with business, nonprofit, and neighborhood leaders to keep communication open and priorities aligned.
The goal is to make Dubuque “open for business” while ensuring that growth benefits everyone—not just a few voices at the table.
What is your plan for Public Safety in Dubuque?
Public safety is the foundation of a strong community. When police and fire departments are underfunded or understaffed, response times suffer, morale drops, burnout increases, and residents feel the impact.
As mayor, I will:
- Fully Fund Police and Fire Services – Ensure budgets keep pace with staffing needs, training requirements, and equipment upgrades so first responders have the resources they need.
- Address Burnout and Staffing Shortages – Work with department leadership to set staffing levels that reduce overtime strain and keep emergency response strong.
- Prioritize Recruitment and Retention – Support competitive pay, benefits, and training opportunities to attract and keep top talent in Dubuque.
- Invest in Mental Health Support for First Responders – Provide programs and partnerships that help prevent burnout and protect the well-being of those who protect us.
- Increase Community Engagement – Build stronger ties between public safety departments and the neighborhoods they serve through regular outreach and transparency initiatives.
Keeping Dubuque safe starts with fully supporting the men and women who answer the call every day.
Meet the Candidate
Jason Davis
I was born and raised on the North End, shaped by the grit, heart, and character of this city.
I’m running for Mayor because I’m proud of Dubuque. I’m proud of the people, the neighborhoods, and the spirit that make it unlike anywhere else.
This campaign isn’t about politics as usual, it’s about people,
ALL of the people.
People Over Politics isn’t a slogan, it’s the foundation for the kind of leadership I believe Dubuque deserves: honest, accessible, and driven by the real needs of real residents in every part of the city.
I’m stepping forward to be a champion for all Dubuquers.
To listen. To lead with integrity. And to work every day to make our city stronger, welcoming, and ready for the future, together.
Donate to Jason
Contributions go directly to Jason Davis for Dubuque to support his campaign for Mayor.
Financial institutions, insurance companies, and corporations are PROHIBITED from making campaign contributions to candidates. If you make a contribution in excess of $25 to a campaign, you MUST provide your name and address to the campaign.
