County Road Conditions, School are Top Priorities for Doeden in District 3 County Commissioners Race
Channing Doeden got the idea to run for County Commissioner in District 3 from a conversation he had with Les Agena (current Commissioner in District 3) a little over two years ago. Doeden asked Agena about his future in the next election cycle and they talked in depth about the position. In the end, Doeden and Agena both felt it would be a great fit for Channing.
“I really enjoy fixing problems and talking to people so that the desired outcome is reached. I feel that good communication is a necessity for the growth and success in our county,” said Doeden.
Doeden grew up on the family farm just north of Cook and is 1985 graduate of Nemaha Valley Schools. He left for the military after graduation and moved back to Lincoln in 2014. He returned to Cook in 2021 with his wife, Shawna.
After the military, Doeden has been a successful small business owner, with services including pet stores, a Medical Supply Company, Sushi Sports Bar, and his latest project, The Branding Iron in Cook. Doeden's college studies were spent on Business Management.
“After getting my degree, my only goal was to have my own business,” Channing stated.
According to Doeden, the hot topic for Johnson County right now is road conditions. “I've listened to quite a few people that are concerned and disappointed with some of the roads around their areas. The county has been doing some needed supplemental training in the last few months with the maintainer crews so effort is ongoing to make improvements.”
Doeden indicated that someone always has a picture or a video on their phone they want to show him. “I do feel there has to be an answer that needs to be addressed. These issues are not, in my opinion, going to just go away without a combined effort to resolve.
“The continued success of our school system is in need of some attention,” added Doeden. “Budget shortfalls and incoming businesses, some needing extensive infrastructure, are going to be a future concern. The number one question I'm asked: 'Who's going to pay for it all?'"
One of the legislative bills Doeden has his eye on is the Lunch Program for everyone. “I'm interested to see how that makes it's way.”
When it comes to bringing in new business or industry, Doeden said any and all are of course welcome, but with limitation and proper development. “We all know the mine is the biggest industry for the future and there are pros and cons. If done properly, as a team, I believe the cons can be held to a minimum and Johnson County residents can benefit greatly.
“As a local businessman in Cook and certainly the popularity of The Branding Iron has allowed me to communicate with individuals daily. You know where I am and as long as the job allows me to sit down and chat, I will,” said Channing.
Channing and Shawna work together daily at The Branding Iron. “I'm doing my favorite hobby.....cooking and creating new dishes,” Doeden concluded.
