A former Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn school administrator is once again seeking a seat under the golden dome in Des Moines.

Lynn Evans, of Aurelia, on Monday announced his candidacy for the Republican Party's nomination in Iowa Senate District 3. Evans previously sought the GOP's nomination in Iowa House District 3 during the 2020 primary, but lost to eventual winner Rep. Dennis Bush, R-Cleghorn.

"During my career I have had the opportunity to lead school districts and serve communities in O'Brien, Osceola, Buena Vista and Cherokee counties. I care deeply for these communities and the future of our state," Evans said in a news release. "As a long-time resident and native of northwest Iowa, I share the values and priorities of these communities."

Evans served as superintendent at H-M-S from 2003 to 2011. He moved on to the head administrative job at Alta-Aurelia before retiring in 2018.

Evans said his priorities include growing the state's rural economy, improving Iowa's educational system, conserving natural resources, increasing access to mental health services, protecting civil liberties and "bringing truth in taxation."

"We need candidates with the courage to take a stand in protecting our constitutional rights. We need candidates that will protect the rights of the unborn," he said. "We need candidates that will not stand by and allow agendas that are in opposition to our family and community values, to take root in our schools. We need candidates at the state level that will stand up against federal government overreach that is not in line with northwest Iowa voters."

Evans is a native of Aurelia and a 1982 graduate of Aurelia High School. He has been married to his wife, Midge, for 37 years. They have two adult children, Erin and Trey, both of whom are graduates of H-M-S High School.

Evans is the former vice president of the Hartley Economic Development Corporation and also served as president of the Hartley Lions Club. He is a founding member of the Hartley Community Foundation and currently serves as vice president of the Alta Kiwanis Club. He has also volunteered to write numerous successful grants that have helped fund projects benefiting both communities and schools.

Senate District 3 was formed during decennial redistricting this year. It includes all of Osceola, O'Brien and Buena Vista counties, as well as parts of Cherokee and Clay counties. No sitting state senators currently reside within its boundaries.

Evans is the first candidate to announce a campaign in the district. The primary election will take place on June 7, 2022.