Terry Smith had what felt like a second full-time job last fall.

Smith, 44, then the operations manager for MidAmerican Energy Co. in Iowa City, served as the company’s local spokesman during the controversial public power debate and referendum. In addition to his daytime duties, he had to talk with the media and answer questions from city officials and citizens at countless meetings, forums and debates.

“My wife went along with me on many occasions, and oftentimes that was when we got to see each other,” said Smith, now director of compliance and delivery for the company, a promotion he said was in the works before the vote.

His efforts paid off.

On Nov. 8, 67 percent of Iowa City voters said “no” to authorizing the city to replace the franchise agreement with MidAmerican with a municipal-owned utility.

Smith said he was happy taking on such a public role during the debate.

“I think it was a good fit, not only because it’s my job, but it fits my convictions as a person,” he said.

The city now has three options. It can continue to study the public power issue; it can resume franchise negotiations with MidAmerican; or it can do nothing.

Taking an active part in an issue is nothing new for Smith. He’s been involved with his children’s activities since they were little. Also, he is chairman of the board of directors of Goodwill Industries of Southeast Iowa and sits on the board for Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa. In May, he took a seat on the Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission.

“I do enjoy it because I find I meet lots of interesting people, and I learn a lot,” Smith said of his involvement.

He said his wife, Cindy, has made keeping his busy schedule possible.

“She’s been a pillar of strength and fills the void when I’ve been involved or busy with other activities,” Smith said.

— Gregg Hennigan

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