On Nov. 4, the mayoral election started with incumbent Mayor Hart taking 49.71 percent of the vote with 5,731 votes and City Councilman Dave Boesen trailing behind with 40.78 percent with 4,702. Mayor Hart received the 49.71 percent popular vote, which was just short of being elected, needing above 50 percent. Due to the result of the first election, it led to a runoff election on Dec. 2.

On Dec. 2, Boesen took 54.5 percent of the vote with 6,306 votes, while Hart only took 45.43 percent with 5,257.

Boesen previously spent 28 years with Waterloo Fire Rescue and six years with the Waterloo Police Department. He’s also served on the council for six years, including four years as an at-large member and the past two years representing Ward 2. Boesen’s focus throughout his campaign was on being the candidate for change, he emphasized his commitment to transparency and public safety, as well as economic development. “I think they see the direction the city is going, they’re not happy with their taxes, not happy with the way we spend our money, and they want something different,” Boesen stated. Having been a Waterloo firefighter and city council member, he has served on many boards and commissions throughout the community, relying on his history of public service to build his campaign.

In an interview with KWWL Boesen said, “I couldn’t be happier that the voters came out, supported me, and believed in me. It was Democrats, Republicans, Independents. They felt Waterloo needed a change. They demonstrated that in the November 4 election when slightly over 50 percent of everyone that voted for Mayor at that time, voted for change. And it really showed today,” after winning the runoff elections.

Boesen’s victory meant the end of Mayor Hart’s five terms in office. If Mayor Hart had been reelected, he would’ve been the longest incumbent mayor of Waterloo. The city of Waterloo will now be waiting to see what changes may come with Boesen in office.