Des Moines, IA (KICD) — Lynn Evans starts his first term as a lawmaker Monday. The Republican will represent Osceola, O’Brien, Buena Vista and portions of Clay and Cherokee Counties in the state senate.

Evans tells KICD News he was appointed to all of the committees he requested.

He also says mental health services might save the state money in the long run.

The entire delegation from Northwest Iowa is Republican, and all committed to school and property tax reform this year. Evans says property taxes are too high, but he also doesn’t want local governments or schools short-changed.